Effect of nerolidol on seizure and oxidative brain damage induced by pentylenetetrazole in mice.

Abstract

Background: Nerolidol, a natural sesquiterpene alcohol found in essential oils, has demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. However, its effects on pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure and associated oxidative brain damage remain unclear.

Objective: To evaluate the anticonvulsant effects of nerolidol on PTZ-induced seizures in mice and to investigate its impact on oxidative and nitrosative stress markers in the hippocampus and cortex.

Methods: Male mice were divided into 5 groups: control, PTZ, and PTZ pretreated with nerolidol (25, 50, or 100 mg/kg, orally) 30 minutes before PTZ administration. Seizure activity was assessed by measuring latencies to minimal clonic seizures (MCSs) and generalized tonic-clonic seizures (GTCSs). After a behavioral evaluation, hippocampal and cortical tissues were analyzed for malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) metabolites, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CT), and total thiol content.

Results: Nerolidol significantly increased MCS and GTCS latencies compared with the PTZ group. In the hippocampus, all doses reduced MDA levels, while in the cortex this effect was observed at 50 and 100 mg/kg. Nitric oxide metabolites were decreased by the two higher doses in both brain regions. The PTZ-induced reductions in SOD and CT activities were reversed by nerolidol at all doses, and total thiol levels were restored at 50 and 100 mg/kg.

Conclusion: Nerolidol exhibits anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects on PTZ-induced seizures, likely mediated by reduced oxidative and nitrosative stress and enhancement of endogenous antioxidant defenses.