Neuroprotective Effects of Phoenix dactylifera L. and Melatonin on Aluminum Chloride-induced Neurotoxicity in the Cerebellum of Adult Male Wistar Rats
Exposure to aluminium is associated with neurotoxicity, affecting various parts of the nervous system. The study investigated the neuroprotective potential of ethanolic fruit extract of Phoenix dactylifera (EFPD) and melatonin against aluminium chloride (AlCl3)-induced neurotoxicity in male adult Wistar rats. Rats were divided into six groups: group 1 received 0.2 ml distilled water; group 2 received 5 mg/kg AlCl3; group 3 received 10 mg/kg melatonin and 5 mg/kg AlCl3; group 4 received 500 mg/kg EFPD and 5 mg/kg AlCl3; group 5 received 1000 mg/kg EFPD and 5 mg/kg AlCl3; group 6 received 670 mg/kg vitamin E and 5 mg/kg AlCl3. Extracts were administered for two weeks. At the end of the study, the cerebellum was dissected for histopathological analysis, and blood samples were collected for biochemical assays. Sensory-motor and motor coordination were assessed using Foregrip strength and beam walking tests. Results revealed that oral administration of AlCl3 significantly (p
Key Words: Phoenix dactylifera, Vitamin E, Purkinje cells, antioxidant, aluminium chloride