5559
Mayada Ashraf Ahmed El-Hiny
Possible Modulation Of Neurochemical And Behavioral Alterations Induced By Nicotine-Cannabis Addiction In Rats
Cannabis resin extract, Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, Nicotine, Rats, Oxidative stress, Inflammation, Memory, Locomotion, Depression
Nicotine (Nic) and cannabis are considered to be the most abused drugs worldwide that are progressively taken concomitantly. The present study aimed to investigate the modulatory effect of Nic on cannabis extract-induced neuroinflammation, oxidative status, and the associated behavioral/biochemical alterations. Nic (0.25 mg/kg) and/or cannabis extract expressed as Δ9tetrahydrocannabinol (THC10/20; 10 and 20 mg/kg) were given intraperitoneally for 30 days to Wistar rats. Furthermore, the purpose of this study was extended to determine whether donepezil (Don; 2.5 mg), an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, in combination with nicotine (0.5 mg/kg) and/or THC (20 mg/kg) might modulate behavioral and biochemical changes in naïve rats. Nic shortened the floating time in forced swimming test, increased locomotion in the open field test, and decreased escape latency in the Morris water maze when co-administered with THC. On the other hand, Don coadministration exhibited depressive-like behavior but yet, not as much as that revealed by THC20 and reduced ambulation. Nic co-treatment also decreased THC-induced brain oxidative stress and neuro-inflammation, while Don cotreatment generally improved brain architecture with measurable benefit regarding oxidative stress and neuroprotection, though it impaired the behavioral tests. Additionally, Nic increased serum butyrylcholinesterase (BChE) when combined with THC without affecting the serum acetylcholinesterase enzyme. The combinations spiked the brain glucose content above normal. In conclusion, the co-administration of Nic reduced THC-induced depressive-like behavior and memory impairment as well as hypo-locomotion associated with THC20. Such effects could be linked to Nic mediated inhibition of brain oxidative stress, inflammation, and decreased serum BChE activity.
2019
Ph.d
Cairo
Pharmacy