Neuroprotective Effect of Apigenin on Pentylenetetrazole-Induced Convulsions in Chicks
نویسندگان
1 Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Duhok, College of Veterinary, Duhok, Iraq.
2 Department of Anatomy and Physiology, University of Duhok, College of Veterinary, Duhok, Iraq.
3 Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Duhok, College of Veterinary Medicine, Duhok, Iraq.
4 Department of Pathology and Microbiology, University of Duhok, College of Veterinary Medicine, Duhok, Iraq.
doi
10.22127/rjp.2026.561978.3043چکیده
Background and objectives: Epileptic seizures involve excessive neuronal activity, oxidative stress, and neurotransmitter imbalances, while natural flavonoids are known for their neuroprotective properties. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of apigenin on PTZ-induced seizures in chicks by assessing neurobehavior, neurotransmitters, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory cytokines. Methods: A total of 60 one-day-old Ross broiler chicks were randomly allocated to six groups (n=10): sham (normal saline, 1 mL/kg), control (PTZ 80 mg/kg), positive control (diazepam 5 mg/kg), and three apigenin-treated groups (40, 80, or 160 mg/kg, orally, once daily for six days). Two hours after the last treatment, PTZ (80 mg/kg) was administered to induce seizures. Seizure behavior was recorded for 30 minutes, and mortality was assessed 3 hours post-PTZ. Result: Apigenin delayed seizure onset and reduced mortality in a dose-dependent manner, showing the greatest anticonvulsant and neuroprotective effects at 160 mg/kg. At this dose, it restored GABA (p<0.001), reduced glutamate (p<0.01), attenuated oxidative stress (MDA, p<0.001; TAOC, p<0.05), and suppressed neuroinflammatory markers (IL-1β and TNF-α, p<0.05). Conclusion: Apigenin exerts dose-dependent anticonvulsant effects in PTZ-induced seizures in chicks by restoring neurotransmitter balance and attenuating oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, supporting its potential as a natural neuroprotective agent.
