Neuroprotetive effect of Curcuma longa alcoholic extract on peripheral nerves degeneration after sciatic nerve compression in rats

Abstract

Wallerian degeneration in the CNS and PNS consists of degradation and phagocytosis of axons and their myelin sheath distal to the site of injury. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the possible antioxidant neuroprotective effect of Curcuma longa extract on neuronal death after sciatic nerve injury in rat. Treatment of Curcuma longa extract (100 mg kg-1, i.p.) at three different times (immediately, 3, 6 and 9 day after compression) significantly (p<0.05) reduced neuronal damage. The present study demonstrates that Curcuma longa extract treatment attenuates sciatic nerve injury and oxidative stress that's following it. Because of antioxidative effect of Curcuma longa extract; treatment with this immediately or even delayed until 24 h may have the potential role to be used as a protective agent in neurodegenerative process. © 2009 Asian Network for Scientific Information.