Neuroprotective Effects of SELFormer-Selected β-Citronellol and β-Caryophyllene in Vagotomized Ischemic Stroke Model Through Direct Brain Protection and Gut Microbiota Modulation

Abstract

Natural compounds identified via the SELFormer pipeline for cognitive enhancement may exert neuroprotective effects in ischemic stroke (IS) through both direct actions on the central nervous system and potential modulation of the gut microbiota. However, it remains unclear whether such benefits persist under conditions in which gut-brain neural communication is compromised. We aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of β-citronellol (BCT), β-caryophyllene (BCP), and citronellyl acetate (CTA) in an IS model with compromised vagal signaling. Mongolian gerbils received daily oral treatment with dextrin (Control), BCT (100 mg/kg), BCP (20 mg/kg), or CTA (100 mg/kg) for 2 weeks before undergoing subdiaphragmatic vagotomy followed by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion; sham-operated animals treated with dextrin served as Normal-C. During an additional 4 weeks of treatment, we assessed neuronal survival, cognitive function, metabolism, neuroinflammation, and gut microbiota composition and metabolism. BCT demonstrated superior neuroprotection, followed by BCP, with CTA showing modest efficacy compared to the control. BCT and BCP increased hippocampal CA1 neurons and improved memory function. Treatments reduced hippocampal acetylcholinesterase activity, lipid peroxidation, and inflammatory markers (TNF-α and IL-1β) while enhancing cerebral blood flow, glucose metabolism, and lipid profiles. Gut microbiota analysis revealed increased α-diversity and restoration of beneficial bacteria, including Akkermansia and Faecalibacterium, particularly with BCT treatment. BCT and BCP increased butyrate-producing bacteria. These improvements occurred despite vagal nerve disruption, indicating alternative neuroprotective mechanisms through enhanced intestinal barrier integrity and microbiota-derived metabolites. In conclusion, these compounds, especially BCT, protect against neuronal death and cognitive impairment in IS conditions through integrated effects on neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and non-vagal gut-brain communication pathways. Therefore, BCT and BCP were potential for IS prevention and treatment strategies.