Neuroprotective Potential of Sericin Against Bisphenol-A-Induced Neurotoxicity in Male Rats: Insights into Oxidative Stress and Neuro-Inflammatory Mechanisms

Background: Bisphenol A (BPA) is known to negatively impact brain function by inducing oxidative stress in brain tissues. Sericin, a silk-derived protein, may offer neuroprotective effects by mitigating BPA-induced physiological stress and neurotoxicity. Materials and Methods: Adult male albino rats were divided into four groups: Control, BPA, Sericin + BPA, and Sericin, with five rats per group. Over a 60-day treatment period, physiological assessments were conducted to measure antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and neurotransmitters in brain tissues. Results: Sericin significantly reduced oxidative stress, as well as pro-inflammatory markers TNF-α, IL-6, and β-amyloid 1-42, compared to the BPA group. It also improves brain function by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity and increasing the levels of serotonin, norepinephrine, and GABA. Additionally, sericin treatment lowered brain ATPase and Na/K-ATPase activity, while downregulating the expression of p53 and caspase 3 genes, both of which are involved in apoptosis. Conclusion: These results indicate that sericin exerts a neuroprotective effect by reducing BPA-induced oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neurotoxicity. Sericin's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties suggest it may have potential as a novel therapeutic agent for preventing neurotoxicity associated with environmental toxins like BPA.