Neuroprotective effects of farnesol on motor and cognitive impairment against 3-nitropropionic acid-induced Huntington’s disease

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study is to evaluate the role of farnesol as a potential neuroprotective agent against 3-nitropropionic acid (3-NP) acid-induced Huntington’s disease (HD) by in vitro, in vivo, and in silico models. 3-NP acid-induced Huntington’s disease in male Wistar rats was used to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of farnesol. Materials and Methods: 3-NP (10 mg/kg/ day) was used for the induction of disease, followed by treatment with 50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg of farnesol for 7 days. The effect of farnesol on motor symptoms was evaluated using actophotometer and rotarod apparatus and effect of farnesol on learning and memory was evaluated using elevated plus maze apparatus. Results: Body weight of animals showed significant gain after treatment with farnesol. Animals showed a significant improvement in locomotor activity, grip strength, and transfer latency after treatment with farnesol compared to disease control. Animals treated with farnesol significantly attenuated 3-NP-induced alterations in the levels of nitrite and reduced glutathione (GSH) level. The binding affinity of farnesol and the standard dimethyl fumarate was found to be −6.1 kcal/mol and −4.6 kcal/mol. Conclusion: Based on the effect of farnesol on neurobehavioral and biochemical parameters in 3-NP acid-induced Huntington’s disease, we conclude that farnesol is effective against 3-NP acid-induced Huntington’s disease in male Wistar rats.