The Neuroprotective Role of Dexpanthenol in Single Methotrexate and not only Multiple Dose Methotrexate Applications: A Study Against Chemotherapy-Induced Cognitive Function Impairments in Female Mice

Aim: An ectopic pregnancy is when an embryo implants in an abnormal location outside the uterus, usually in the fallopian tube, and can be a serious life-threatening condition if left untreated. Such pregnancies can be treated with antineoplastic drugs such as methotrexate (MTX). MTX-induced neurotoxic side effects can lead to cognitive dysfunction. This study investigates the potential neuroprotective effects of dexpanthenol (DEX) against MTX-induced cognitive impairment in female mice. Materials and Methods: Female mice were divided into three groups: control (saline), MTX (40 mg/kg), and MTXDEX (Dex 500 mg/kg, 1-hour prior to MTX). Cognitive functions were assessed using the Open Field test (OF), Tail Suspension Test (TST), and Novel Object Recognition Test (NOR) 24-hours post-MTX injection. Anxiety-like behavior, depression-like behavior, and learning and memory performance were evaluated. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's HSD test. Results: MTX treatment induced anxiety-like and depression-like behaviors, as evidenced by a reduction in time spent in the central zone of the OF arena and increased immobility time in the TST, respectively. The NOR test revealed that MTX impaired learning and memory functions, as indicated by a lower discrimination index compared to the control group. However, DEX treatment significantly alleviated these MTX-induced effects. Conclusion: DEX demonstrates a neuroprotective effect against MTX-induced cognitive impairment in female mice. DEX treatment effectively reduced anxiety and depression-like symptoms and improved cognitive functions, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic option for mitigating chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the precise mechanisms of action of DEX and to validate these findings in clinical settings.