Nigella Sativa Prevented Parkinson's-Like Motor Functions Impairment, Dopamine Depletion and Neuronal Degeneration in the Striatum of Mptp-Induced Balb/C Mice

Abstract Background Parkinsonism is a neurological disease characterised by dopaminergic neuron degeneration in the substantial nigra and dopamine deficiency in the brain, with motor and psycho-cognitive implications, while limitations masked the efficacy of the available drugs, thus the need to find alternatives with less side effects are essential. Nigella sativa is a multi-potent plant with therapeutic potentials in the brain and other body organs. This study investigated the effects of Nigella sativa oil (NSO) on the cognitive and other Parkinsonism endophenotypes elicited by MPTP in the BALB/c strain mice. Materials and Methods Body weights, brain-body ratios, recognition memory (through novel object recognition test), as well as fronto-cortical, striatal and cerebellar dopamine and neuronal density were assayed in thirty-two (32) male BALB/c mice (18 g − 25 g). They were randomized into four groups exposed to; normal feed, 18 mg/kg MPTP i.p, 1 ml/kgbw NSO p.o., and NSO + MPTP respectively, for 5 consecutive days. Behaviours were analysed 24 hours after the last exposure, subsequently euthanized, the brains removed and processed for biomarkers analysis and histochemistry. Results Parkinsonism-like traits such as mild tremor, down-regulation of striatal and fronto-cortical dopamine and neurons were recorded in the BALB/c mice administered with MPTP only. However, significant increase (p < 0.05) in appetite, body weight, brain-body weight ratio, and recognition memory was also recorded in the MPTP-administered mice, though Nigella sativa was significantly prophylactic against the negative Parkinsonic features, and ‘moderative’ of the up-regulations induced by MPTP. Conclusion While this suggests selective MPTP sensitivity and resistance in BALB/c strains, this study recommends the investigation of possible (though ironic) beneficial potentials of MPTP.