Synergistic Neuroprotective Effect of Garlic Acid Extract and Sulforaphane in 6-Hydroxydopamine-lesioned Rat Model of Parkinson’s Disease.

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by selective neuronal death. One of the first toxins used to degenerate the dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra is possibly 6-Hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Our study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effect of garlic acid extract and sulforaphane in a 6-hydroxydopamine-lesioned rat model of Parkinson’s disease. the rats were assigned to five groups in the following manner: The Sham Group received saline only. The 6-OHDA group received 6-OHDA injection. The 6-OHDA /SFN group received 6-OHDA and SFN. The 6-OHDA /GE Group received both 6-OHDA and GE. The 6-OHDA /SFN /GE Group received 6-OHDA, SFN and GE. Apomorphine‐induced rotational test and Hanging test in rats were performed. Oxidative stress biomarkers were measured in SN samples using a colorimetric assay. Additionally, the levels of ERK1/ERK2 were quantitatively measured. In addition, histological examinations were conducted. Both SFN and GE resulted in a significant improvement in motor tests and a decrease in oxidative stress markers. Furthermore, it led to the inactivation of ERK1/ERK2 expressions and improved structural damage in the substantia nigra. Furthermore, there was a decrease in caspase-3 expression in SN. The neuroprotective effect of both SFN and GE when given together was more than each separately indicating synergistic effect of them. Therefore, SFN and GE can be considered to be used as a combination treatment for parkinsonism.