Neuroprotective role of naringenin against methylmercury induced cognitive impairment and mitochondrial damage in a mouse model

Adwaid Manu Krishna Chandran, Hannah Christina, Shubhankar Das, Kamalesh D. Mumbrekar, B. S. Satish Rao

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Human exposure to organomercurials like methylmercury (MeHg) may occur by consumption of contaminated seafood, affecting various vital organs especially, brain contributing to neuro disorders. The citrus flavanone, naringenin (NAR) has shown strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and therefore may exert cytoprotective effect against xenobiotic agents. Herein, we investigated the neuroprotective role of NAR against MeHg induced functional changes in mitochondria, neuronal cell death and cognitive impairment in a mouse model. A neurotoxic dose of MeHg (4 mg/kg.b.wt.) was administered orally to mice for 15 days. This resulted in the reduction of GSH and GST, an increase in mitochondrial DNA damage and memory impairment. On the contrary, NAR pre-treatment (100 mg/kg.b.wt.), helped in lowering the oxidative burden which in turn maintained mitochondrial function and prevented induced neuronal cell death, ultimately improving the cognitive impairment. As MeHg intoxication occurs chronically, consumption of the dietary components rich in NAR may have its positive human health impact, ultimately improving the quality of life.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Article number103224
JournalEnvironmental Toxicology and Pharmacology
Volume71
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 2019
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • Cognitive impairment
  • Methylmercury
  • Mitochondrial damage
  • Naringenin
  • Neuroprotection

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Toxicology
  • Pharmacology
  • Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis

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