Protective Effect of Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone-7) On Sodium Nitrite-Induced Neuroinflammation Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress in Rats' Brain Tissue

Document Type : Original research articles

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Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Taibah University, KSA

10.21608/svuijm.2024.338424.2025

Abstract

Background: Extensive use of sodium nitrite (NaNO2) as a food additive induces severe side effects, including oxidative stress, fibrogenesis, and apoptosis in active human organs, particularly affecting the brain. Antioxidants are needed to mitigate these effects.
Objectives: This study evaluates oxidative stress markers and the molecular and histopathological changes induced by NaNO2 in rat brains and assesses the presumed protective role of menaquinone-7 (Vit. K2).
Materials and methods: Forty adult rats were divided into four groups of ten each: Group I (control), Group II (30 mg/kg bwt Vit. K2 intake), Group III (60 mg/kg bwt NaNO2 intake), and Group IV (both Vit. K2 and NaNO2). Brain tissues were collected post-treatment to measure oxidative stress markers, fibrosis, and apoptosis. Histopathological examination and immunohistochemical staining for VEGF and caspase 3 were conducted.
Results: Vit. K2 improved body and brain weights compared to NaNO2-intoxicated rats. It reduced fibrosis and apoptosis, significantly increased antioxidant enzymes SOD and CAT, and enhanced total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Vit. K2 restored normal histological structures in the brain. VEGF and caspase-3 immunoreactivity in the brain tissues also shifted from strong positivity with NaNO2 to near normal with Vit. K2.
Conclusion: NaNO2 induces pathological and biochemical changes in the brain, which can be mitigated by Vit. K2. Vit. K2's protective effects are attributed to its antioxidant, antifibrotic, and antiapoptotic activity.properties

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SVU-International Journal of Medical Sciences
Volume 7, Issue 2
July 2024
Pages 892-906

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