Ameliorative Effects of the Ethanolic Extract of Brassica oleracea on Naphthalene-Induced Cerebellar Toxicity in Adult Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Aim: To investigate the ameliorative effects of Brassica oleracea against naphthalene-induced oxidative stress in the cerebellum of adult male Wistar rats. Methodology: Twenty five (25) adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups (A–E, n = 5). Group A served as control and received only feed and distilled water ad libitum. Group B received 15mg/kg of naphthalene. Group C received 15mg/kg of Naphthalene and 200mg/kgbw Brassica oleracea, Group D received 15mg/kg of Naphthalene and 400mg/kgbw Brassica oleracea while Group E received 400mg/kgbw Brassica oleracea only. The treatment lasted for 28 days and all administration was via oral gavage. At the end of the experiment, blood samples were collected for oxidative stress markers analysis, and cerebellum were excised for histopathological evaluation. Results: Exposure to naphthalene caused significant (p < 0.05) increase in MDA and SOD levels (3.95±0.06 vs. 2.32±0.39 in controls and 25.83±0.53 vs. 17.33±0.59 in control, respectively) while the administration of Brassica oleracea significantly (p < 0.05) reduced their levels. Histopathological analysis of the cerebellum showed pyknotic pyramidal cells and severe degeneration and vacoulation in the different layers while the Brassica oleracea treated groups showed moderate regeneration in the different layers and active cells in a dose-dependent manner. Conclusion: Ethanolic extract of Brassica oleracea exhibits ameliorative effects against naphthalene-induced oxidative stress and histopathological changes in the cerebellum of adult male Wistar rats. These findings suggest its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for neurotoxicities caused by naphthalene and other toxic agents.