Hesperidin protects the cerebral cortex of albino Wistar rats from the toxic effects of palmitic acid and preserves neurotransmitters‐associated enzymes

Palmitic acid (PMA) is abundantly present in substantial quantities within palm oil and manifests neurodegenerative propensities. Conversely, the ingestion of Hesperidin (HSD) is correlated with a reduction in inflammatory markers and mediators. This investigation was meticulously devised to scrutinize the protective potential of HSD against the deleterious repercussions of PMA administration on the cerebral cortex. A cohort comprising forty albino Wistar rats was stratified into four groups, each receiving supplements of HSD and PMA. Remarkably, HSD was observed to fortify the histological framework of the cerebral cortex subsequent to PMA exposure, concurrently diminishing the percentage of apoptotic cells. Furthermore, HSD upregulated the levels of antioxidant markers, preserved the levels of neurotransmitter-associated enzymes, and downregulated the expression of inflammation-regulating genes. In conclusion, PMA exerts toxic effects on the cerebral cortex of albino Wistar rats, leading to increased apoptosis and neuroinflammation, thereby reducing brain cholinergic activity. HSD was found to attenuate the cerebral cortex content of MPO, 5-NTD, ROS, MDA, and NF-κB. Additionally, it elevated the cerebral cortex content of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory markers, thereby shielding it from the deleterious effects of PMA.