NEUROPROTECTIVE EFFECT OF EXTRACT OF ANACARDIUM OCCIDENTALE LINN ON A ROTENONE MODEL OF PARKINSON´S DISEASE

In this study the neuroprotective activity extract hydroalcoholic of AO against behavioral and biochemical parameters induced by subcutaneous injection of rotenone was evaluated, important for the understanding of Parkinson´s disease, which is the most common neurodegenerative disorder affecting movement. Rotenone is a potent hydrophobic pesticide and a highly selective inhibitor of complex I in the electron transport chain. Anacardium occidentale (AO), popularly known as cashew, is a tropical tree native to north and northeast Brazil. Peduncles (pseudofruit) and nuts can be eaten raw or converted into various nutritional products (juice, tea, jam, and beverages). AO has been studied for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antitumor, molluscicides and antidiabetogenic activity. Behavior evaluations were performed using the models of open-field, rotarod, on horizontal bar and elevated T-maze. The in vivo antioxidant activity was evaluated in the substantia nigra (SN), cortex and striatal region by lipid peroxidation after behavioral tests. Systemic administration of rotenone produced hypolocomotion, muscle incoordination and memory deficit. AO administration (150 and 600 mg/kg, p.o.) improved rotenona induced dysfunctional behavior (locomotor, musculature coordination and memory retention). Biochemical analysis of the SN, cortex and striatum revealed that systemic rotenone administration significantly increased lipid peroxidation which was attenuated by daily treatment with AO. These results suggest that there are protective effects of AO on oxidative stress caused by rotenone mediated through its antioxidant activity.