Evaluating the Antiparkinsonian activity of Tamarix gallica extract in a reserpine-induced rat model of Parkinsonism: behavioral and neurochemical assessments

Abstract Background Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the world and it is a challenge for doctors. This study investigates the effect of Tamarix gallica (TG) on the behavioral, neurochemical and tissue changes induced by reserpine, a chemical that causes PD. Methods Female Wistar rats were divided into different groups (n = 6). Eight groups each for reserpine induced PD model to mimic Parkinson-like conditions and treated with different doses of extract of TG and nanosuspension of extract of TG . 24 h after the last dose, animals were subjected to behavioral, biochemical and histopathological evaluations. The data were analyzed by one-way ANOVA and Dunnett’s comparison test. Results Reserpine decreased locomotor activity and motor coordination ability. Reserpine also decreases catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and increases lipid peroxidation (LPO) levels as compared to normal control group animals. Reserpine also showed the presence of vacuolated cytoplasm. Levodopa and extract of TG and nanosuspension of extract of TG as well as in combination normalized the behavioral, biochemical and histopathological complications. Conclusion Nanosuspension of extract of TG and alone extract of TG showed neuroprotection by antioxidant activity as well as improved reserpine-induced behavioral defects. Extracts of TG have active potential and can be used clinically with some further investigations. Graphical abstract