Effects of a Ketogenic Diet on the Assessment of Biochemical and Clinical Parameters in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy: A Preclinical Investigation.

Abstract

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive disorder characterized by progressive skeletal muscle degeneration and systemic effects, including the central nervous system (CNS). This study aimed to assess the impact of a 14-day ketogenic diet (DCet) on biochemical and clinical parameters in a DMD mouse model. Young adult mice (50 days old) were fed DCet, while control groups received a standard diet. On the 14th day, memory and behavior tests were conducted, followed by biochemical evaluations of oxidative stress, inflammatory biomarkers, body weight, feed intake, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels. mdx + DCet mice showed reduced mass (0.2 g ± 2.49) and improved memory retention (p < 0.05) compared to controls. Oxidative damage in muscle tissue and CNS decreased, along with a significant cytokine level reduction (p <0.05). The protocol led to an increase in hippocampal BDNF and mitochondrial respiratory complex activity in muscle tissue and the central nervous system (CNS), while also decreasing creatine kinase activity only in the striatum. Overall, a 14-day DCet showed protective effects by improving spatial learning and memory through reductions in oxidative stress and immune response, as well as increases in BDNF levels, consistent with our study's findings.