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Neuroprotective effects of Zingiber officinale against lead-induced toxicity in Wistar rats

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Abstract

Purpose

This study investigated the protective and antioxidative effect of aqueous root extract of ginger (Zingiber officinale) (AREG) against lead (Pb)-induced neurotoxicity in adult Wistar rats.

Methods

Twenty (20) adult Wistar rats were randomly divided into four groups (A–D) of five animals each: Group A served as the control group, Group B received 100 mg/kg body weight of Pb only, Group C received 100 mg/kg body weight of AREG pre-treatment 1 h before administration of 100 mg/kg body weight of Pb, and Group D received 100 mg/kg body weight of AREG only. At the end of the experiment, neurobehavioral activity, lipid peroxidation, antioxidant enzymes activity, and histology of the cerebrum and cerebellum were evaluated.

Results

Rats treated with Pb alone had a significant reduction in final body weight, absolute brain weight, SOD, and CAT activity when compared to control. Similarly, there was a significant reduction in ambulation and rearing episodes as well as a significant increase in immobility and self-grooming activities in rats treated with Pb alone, thus indicating impaired locomotor functions. A significant elevation in lipid peroxidation was also observed. However, pretreatment of rats with AREG attenuated the effects induced by Pb.

Conclusion

Based on the results, AREG is a promising neuroprotective agent for preventing Pb-induced impairment of locomotor functions and dysregulation of antioxidant enzymes activity. It could be a viable alternative to other synthetic medicines utilized in the attenuation of Pb-induced toxicity.

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Data availability

The datasets used and/or analyzed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

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Acknowledgements

The authors appreciate the kind assistance of Mr. Kevin Akonofua during the conduct of this research.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Benin, Edo State, Nigeria

    Adaze Bijou Enogieru & Oghenakhogie Momodu

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  1. Adaze Bijou Enogieru
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Contributions

ABE conceived, designed, and performed the experiments; ABE and OM performed the analysis, interpreted the data, and prepared the draft of the manuscript. All authors have reviewed and approved the final draft of the manuscript.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Adaze Bijou Enogieru.

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Ethical approval

The experimental procedures performed on the animals were according to the Research Ethics Committee of the College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria, with approval number CMS|REC|2021|158. The use of rats for the study was also according to the Ethical Guidelines Involving Whole Animal Testing of the Research Ethics Committee of the College of Medical Sciences, University of Benin, Nigeria.

Conflict of interest

The authors declare no competing interests.

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Enogieru, A.B., Momodu, O. Neuroprotective effects of Zingiber officinale against lead-induced toxicity in Wistar rats. Nutrire 48, 2 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1186/s41110-022-00184-6

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