Neuroprotective alpha-linolenic acid derived from black pepper targets PGK1 and activates the Nrf2 pathway in PC12 cells and mice

Abstract

Background

Oxidative stress is a significant contributor to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease. Nuclear factor E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a pivotal regulator of antioxidant responses, is an emerging therapeutic target for these conditions. Our study assessed the neuroprotective effects of monomeric compounds derived from black pepper against hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂)-induced damage in neuron-like PC12 cells. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) demonstrated superior protective effects.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the mechanism underlying the neuroprotective activity of ALA derived from black pepper.

Methods

H₂O₂ induces oxidative stress in vitro, and MPTP induces Parkinson's syndrome in vivo. Proliferation and apoptosis assays, fluorescent dye staining, Western blotting, real-time PCR, immunofluorescence, luciferase reporter assays, behavioural experiments, and immunohistochemistry were performed to investigate the effects of ALA and the underlying mechanism in vitro and in vivo.

Results

Our findings indicate that the ROS-scavenging and cytoprotective properties of ALA are likely mediated through Nrf2 activation and the upregulation of phase II antioxidant enzymes, including HO-1 and NQO1. Drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) assays revealed that ALA interacts with the PGK1 protein, potentially inhibiting its activity to promote Nrf2 activation. In vivo, the oral administration of ALA (60 and 120 mg/kg) significantly mitigated the behavioural deficits associated with Parkinson's disease, preserved dopaminergic neurons in an MPTP-induced mouse model of PD, and relieved nerve inflammation.

Conclusion

Our data suggest that ALA may be a candidate neuroprotective agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, offering novel insights and potential therapeutic targets for future interventions.