Evaluating the effect of trachyspermum ammi (ajwain) hydro-alcoholic extract on oxidative stress markers and cholinesterase activity n brain of male rats fed by a high cholesterol diet

The brain is exceptionally susceptible to oxidative stress that may be caused by a high cholesterol diet. Hypercholesterolemia and oxidative stress are the major risk factors for many diseases such as cognitive abnormalities and various central nervous system disorders. This study aimed to evaluate the antioxidant and enzyme modulation activities of hydro-alcoholic extract of Trachyspermum ammi in the brain homogenates of adult Wistar rats.

In this experimental study, 28 male rats in the weight range of 190-220 g were divided into four different groups including control, Control plus Ajwain extract, HF, and Ajwain extract-treated high cholesterol-fed groups. Rats were fed a high-cholesterol diet (high-fat group) or a normal diet (control group) for eight weeks. The extract was injected intraperitoneally into rats at a dose of 250 mg/kg weight for three weeks once a day. The activity of butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), catalase (CAT), reduced glutathione (GSH), and reactive oxygen species (ROS) activities were measured by relevant kits in homogenous tissue of the rat brain. Finally, the results were analyzed by one-way ANOVA statistical test.

Our study showed that the levels of BChE, Catalase, GSH significantly reduced in the high-fat group compared to the control group after eight weeks and the ROS levels significantly increased in the high-fat group compared to the control (p < 0.01). Levels of BChE, catalase and reduced glutathione were significantly increased compared to the high-fat group after treatment with Ajwain extract (p <0.01).

Antioxidants and anticholinesterase inhibitors may provide appropriate therapies that improve oxidative stress and reduced cognitive function associated with neurodegenerative diseases.