Curcumin Abates Formaldehyde-Induced Neurotoxicity via NO Pathway and the Change of Minerals (Calcium, Iron, Zinc, Copper, Magnesium) in Brain Tissue

Abstract

Oxidative stress has been defined as an imbalance between higher cellular levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). If ROS are not controlled by enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, they can cause oxidative injury. Brains are protected by antioxidants from nitro-oxidative and peroxidative damage. The antioxidant enzymes are superoxide dismutase and catalase, which contain zinc (Zn) and copper (Cu) as cofactors. Also, trace elements have important effects on brain development and function. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of curcumin administration on the exchange of nitric oxide (NO) and on the calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), Zn, Cu, and magnesium (Mg) levels in brain tissue. Animals (a total of 30 adult Wistar albino rats, 4-6 months old) were randomly divided into three groups (n = 10): control, formaldehyde-exposed, and treated daily with curcumin after formaldehyde exposure (100 mg kg-1). At the end of the experimental period (the 14th day), NO levels were measured by ELISA. Ca, Fe, Zn, Cu, and Mg levels in whole-brain tissues were determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry in all groups. NO and Mg levels were increased and Cu and Ca levels were decreased in the group treated with curcumin when compared with the formaldehyde-only group. These changes were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). However, Fe levels were significantly reduced and Zn levels were significantly increased (P < 0.05). In conclusion, the administration of curcumin as an antioxidant may be a factor in regulating the mineral balance of the brain in conditions of oxidative stress caused by the application of FA. Curcumin may play a role in reducing FA-induced cellular damage, and may contribute to the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. © 2016, Polish Society Magnesium Research. All rights reserved.