Article · Volume 6, Issue 1 · pp. 115–123
Antioxidant potential of Thymoquinone against Arsenic mediated neurotoxicity
Fakiha Firdaus1, Mohd Faraz Zafeer1, Ehraz Anis1, Mahino Fatima1, M Mobarak Hossain1, Mohammad Afzal2
- 1Interdisciplinary Brain Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, INDIA.
- 2Human Genetics and Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, INDIA.
Abstract
Introduction: Arsenic, an established poisonous metalloid has widespread occurrence in the environment which is posing a constant threat to health and survival of all living organisms. In view of arsenic induced oxidative stress and toxicity, this study focuses on the mitigatory role of thymoquinone, a major active component in the volatile oil of Nigella sativa (commonly known as black cumin); as its nutraceutical value can fulfil the demand of such dietary supplements in high risk population areas.Methods: In the current study, brain preparations of male wistar rats were used to assess different biochemical markers of oxidative stress and genotoxicity.Results: Significant and dose-dependent alterations in the level of enzymatic and biochemical biomarkers of oxidative stress were observed in the As-treated system. However, pre-treatment with thymoquinone brought about significant reduction in the As-induced neurotoxicity. Also, a significant decline in arsenic-induced DNA damage was recorded on pre-treatment with thymoquinone in comet assay.Conclusion: This study proves usefulness of antioxidant potential of thymoquione in mitigating the arsenic induced neurotoxicity.
Keywords: Arsenic; DNA Damage; Neurotoxicity; Oxidative Stress; Thymoquinone
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