Neuroprotective effect of <i>Cistanche deserticola</i> glycosides in MPTP-Induced Parkinson’s disease mouse model involves Nrf2 activation

Parkinson's Disease (PD) a progressive neurodegenerative disorder is attributed to dopaminergic neuronal cell loss in the mid-brain substantia nigra pars compacta. A major risk factors associated with PD development is presence of excess oxidative stress. Previously, glycosides derived from <i>Cistanche deserticola</i> were reported to play a key role in counteracting PD; however, the underlying mechanisms remain to be determined. This study aimed to examine the neuroprotective effect attributed to glycosides derived from <i>C. deserticola</i> in PD model in mice. The model of PD was established by injecting intraperitoneally 1-methyl-4-penyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP). Rotarod and pole tests determined neurological behavior. The following immunohistochemistry, and metabolic biomarkers were measured mid-brain substantia nigra: (1) number of dopaminergic neuronal cell using immunohistochemistry (2) oxidative stress as evidenced by activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) as well levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), (3) inflammatory infiltration as measured by levels of IL-1β and TNF-α (4) by Western blot involvement of protein expression levels of Nrf2 signaling pathway. Data demonstrated that <i>C. deserticola</i> glycosides treatment improved behavioral performance, increased number of dopaminergic neurons, reduced cytokine levels of IL-1β and TNF-α accompanied by enhanced antioxidant activity in PD mice. These observations were associated with activation of Nrf2 signaling pathway. Data suggest that <i>C. deserticola</i> glycosides may thus be considered as an alternative compound for PD treatment.