Influence of Vitexin on ataxia-like condition initiated by lead exposure in mice

• Published in: Toxicology and environmental health sciences 2020-12, Vol.12 (4), p.305-313
• Main Authors: Amedu, Nathaniel Ohiemi, Omotoso, Gabriel Olaiya
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biomedical and Life Sciences; Biomedicine; Environmental Health; Original Article; Pharmacology/Toxicology
• ISSN: 2005-9752; 2233-7784
• DOI: 10.1007/s13530-020-00041-x

Aim The study was aimed at investigating the influence of Vitexin on motor deficits and ataxia-like condition caused by Pb neurotoxicity in mice. Materials and methods Twenty four adult male albino mice were divided into four groups of six animals. Group A (Control) was administered 0.2 ml of normal saline; Group B was administered with Pb acetate 100 mg/kg/b.wt./d for 14 days; Group C was administered Vitexin 1 mg/kg/b.wt./d for 14 days; and Group D was administered 100 mg/kg/b.wt./d of Pb acetate + 1 mg/kg/b.wt./d of Vitexin for 14 days. Footprint pattern and Hang wire tests were carried out, while the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) in the cerebellum were assayed. Furthermore, cerebellum sections were stained with Haematoxylin and Eosin, while Purkinje cells were counted. Results Pb treated group showed that the MDA level was significantly high while the SOD level was low when compared with other groups. Also, loss of Purkinje cells, poor gait, and motor coordination were observed. In Pb + Vitexin treated group, the SOD level was significantly high while the MDA level was low. Besides, there was a significant improvement in gait, and motor coordination in Pb + Vitexin treated group. Conclusion Pb neurotoxicity caused an increase in oxidative stress, loss of Purkinje cells, and ataxic-like symptoms. However, concurrent administration of Pb and Vitexin was able to neutralize oxidative stress and improve ataxic-like motor coordination.