Evaluation of the Neurodegenerative Effect of Nanoaluminum in Rats and the Potential Therapeutic Effect of Deferoxamine

Background: Aluminum nanoparticles (AlNPs) deposition plays a significant role in neurodegenerative disease (NDD) pathogenesis. Deferoxamine (DFO), an iron-chelating agent, shows promise in NDDs. Aim of the work: To assess the neurodegenerative toxic effects of AlNPs in rats and evaluate the potential therapeutic effect of DFO. Material and Methods: Forty male rats were divided into four groups (n=10). The control group received deionized water for two weeks; the DFO group received 100 mg/kg DFO intraperitoneally daily for seven days; the AlNPs group received 50 mg/kg AlNPs orally for two weeks; the combined group received 50 mg/kg AlNPs for two weeks followed by 100 mg/kg DFO daily for seven days. Amyloid beta and GPx levels were measured, and brain tissues were examined histopathologically. Results: There were significant reductions in GPx in the AlNPs group compared to the control and DFO groups (P4<0.001). A significant increase in GPx was observed in the combined group compared to AlNPs alone. Beta amyloid was significantly reduced in the combined group compared to AlNPs. The AlNPs group exhibited significant cerebral, cerebellar, and hippocampal alterations, which returned to near normal with DFO administration. Conclusion: Deferoxamine shows potential therapeutic effects in AlNPs-induced NDD, evidenced by reduced cerebral β-amyloid and increased GPx levels, confirmed by near-normal histopathological brain structures post-DFO administration.