Bavachinin attenuates pentylenetetrazol-induced seizures through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms in adult male mice

Background: Epileptic seizures affect approximately 10% of the global population and are associated with morbidity, mortality, and economic burden. Despite the availability of antiepileptic drugs, a lot of patients remain resistant to current treatments. Neuroinflammation and oxidative stress are important contributors to seizure pathophysiology. Bavachinin is a flavonoid derived from Psoralea corylifolia, which has been demonstrated to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics. Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the anticonvulsant potential of bavachinin in a pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure model in mice, emphasizing its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Methods: Twenty-eight male mice were randomly divided into four groups: control, bavachinin alone (200 mg/kg, PO), PTZ alone (400 mg/kg, IP), and bavachinin + PTZ. Seizure latency was recorded. Moreover, hippocampal tissues were examined for malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) concentration using biochemical and ELISA techniques. Results: Bavachinin significantly delayed the onset of PTZ-induced seizures and prevented progression to the most severe stage (stage 5). PTZ-induced seizures elevated MDA and TNF-α levels while reducing SOD activity in the hippocampus. Bavachinin pretreatment markedly reduced MDA and TNF-α levels and restored SOD activity, indicating potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. Novelty of the Study: This study addresses the gap in epilepsy treatment regarding the lack of a natural compound with therapeutic potential. This study evaluates the anticonvulsant, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects of bavachinin in a PTZ-induced seizure model in mice. By demonstrating that bavachinin not only delays seizure onset but also significantly modulates oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD) and pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α), this work introduces a novel, plant-derived compound with anticonvulsant, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Conclusions: Bavachinin represents anticonvulsant, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities in PTZ-induced seizures in mice. It is advised that its mechanics and clinical use be further investigated. Keywords: Bavachinin, seizure, pentylenetetrazol (PTZ), oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, malondialdehyde (MDA).