Neuroprotective Effect of Maresin-1 in Rotenone-Induced Parkinson’s Disease in Rats: The Putative Role of the JAK/STAT Pathway

Exposure to rotenone results in similar pathophysiological features as Parkinson’s disease. Inflammation and oxidative stress are essential to PD pathogenesis. Maresin-1 has potent anti-inflammatory properties and promotes the regression of inflammation function. The current study aimed to evaluate the protective effects of Maresin-1 (MaR1) in rotenone (ROT)-induced PD and whether this protective role is associated with the initiation of the Janus kinase (JAK)-signal transducers and activator of transcription (STAT) signaling pathway. Thirty male Wister rats were classified into control, ROT-treated, and ROT + MaR1-treated groups. Rats underwent rotarod, open field, grip strength, and stepping tests as part of their motor behavioral evaluation. Serum glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) and striatal dopamine, acetylcholine, malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β were evaluated. Expression of JAK1 and STAT3 genes was assessed in striatum. Then, the tissue was subjected to histological and immunohistochemical evaluation for caspase-3, GFAP, and NF-kB. The administrated group with rotenone showed significant motor behavioral impairment. This was accompanied by reduced levels of GDNF and dopamine and increased levels of acetylcholine, as well as augmented oxidative stress and inflammatory biomarkers and reduced antioxidant activity. Inflammatory pathways (JAK1/STAT3, caspase-3, and NF-kB) were upregulated. Histopathological changes and upregulation in GFAP immunopositive reaction were observed. Remarkably, MaR1 treatment effectively alleviated behavior, histopathological changes, and biochemical alterations induced by ROT. MaR1 exerts protective effects against ROT-induced PD by its anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic, and antioxidant properties. MaR1 mechanisms of action may involve modulation of pathways such as JAK/STAT.