Algerian Journal of Health Sciences
Volume 2, Numéro 2, Pages 43-50
2020-09-02

Neuroprotective Effect Of Coenzyme Q10 Against Neurological Disorders Induced In An Experimental Model Of Epilepsy

Authors : Ahras-sifi Nesrine . Laraba-djebari Fatima .

Abstract

Introduction and Objective: Epilepsy is a common neurological disorder characterized by recurrent seizures and a neurodegenerative process. Neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction may play an important role in the pathophysiology of seizures. In this study, a neurodegenerative model of seizure was developed using Kaliotoxin (KTx), a potassium channel blocker neurotoxin isolated from scorpion venom. The role of the coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10), which isan essential cofactor of the electron transport chain in mitochondrial against KTx-disorders was investigated. Subjects and Methods:Naval Medical Research Institute(NMRI) mice were injected with KTx byintracerebroventricular (i.c.v) route prior or no the use of CoQ10 administered by per os(p.o) route. Results:Binding of KTx to its biological target the Kv channels, causes seizures, activation of inflammatory response and oxidative stress characterized by an increase of cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2) expression, Nitric oxide (NO) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) levels associated to a decrease of GSH level. The neuroinflammatory response is accompanied by cerebral alterations. The administration of CoQ10 before KTx injection seems to be able to reduce the observed alterations, probably by reducing oxidative stress characterized by an increase of anti-oxidant markers (GSH level and the catalase activity). Conclusions:The developed model using KTx could help to the understanding of the molecular pathway involved in the neuropathological processes related to K+ channel dysfunctions. The CoQ10 seems to have a neuroprotective effect against the induced disorders by KTx by enhancing the mitochondrial function. These findings suggested the therapeutic potential of the CoQ10 in neurodegenerative disorders. The CoQ10 treatment could be a new therapeutic approach in brain alterations due to seizure.

Keywords

Seizure, neurodegeneration, neurotoxin, mitochondria, coenzyme Q10.