Neuroprotective effect of Salvia purpurea on motor behavior in a model of Parkinson's disease

Parkinson’s disease is the fastest growing neurological disorder in the world. It has traditionally been recognised clinically by a distinctive motor phenotype that includes bradykinesia (slowed movements), rigidity (increased muscle tone), tremor, and altered gait and postural reflexes. Pharmacological Parkinson's treatment is a challenge that requires new therapeutic options. Salvia purpurea is widely distributed in Mexico, belonging to the mint family (Lamiaceae). Salvia species are considered valuable due to their antiviral, anti-Alzheimer, anti-inflammatory, antidiarrheal and antispasmodic activities, amongst others.The aim of this work was to evaluate the neuroprotective effect of S. purpurea on motor behaviour in a rat model of Parkinson’s induced by MPP+neurotoxin. Aerial parts collected in Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico and a hydroalcoholic extract 85:15 (HESp) was prepared. The Parkinson´s model was performed as described previously [1]. To evaluate the effect of HESp on different levels of motor ability, such as: gross motor activity, motor asymmetry and motor coordination and balance, open field, cylinder, and RotaRod tests were performed respectively. Results shows a decrease of the motor ability induced by the MPP+neurotoxin with respect to the control group, and the treatment with HESp (100 mg/kg for 14 days, v.o.) shows a tendency to prevent neurotoxin-induced motor damage in all tests performed. These results suggest that S. purpurea has a potential neuroprotective effect in the Parkinson´s model.

• References

• 1 Aguirre-Vidal Y. et al. Protection induced by estradiol benzoate in the MPP+rat model of Parkinson's disease is associated with the regulation of the inflammatory cytokine profile in the nigro striatum. J Neuroimmunol 2020; 349: 577426

Publication History

Article published online:
16 November 2023