Galbanic acid delays the development of seizures by modulating the expression of TNFalpha, IL1beta, and TLR4 genes and reducing hippocampal nitrite levels and may be useful in the treatment of epilepsy

Abstract

INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic brain disorders worldwide. This study aimed to determine the effect of Galbanic acid on seizures. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this study, 40 NMRI mice were used and divided into 4 groups. The control group received 10 mg/kg normal saline. Three groups received Galbanic acid at doses of 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg. The positive control group received diazepam with a dose of 10 mg/kg. All injections were made intraperitoneally for one week. Seizures were induced in all mice by injection of 90 mg/kg Pentylenetetrazole (PTZ). Then the latency of seizure onset in each of the experimental groups was recorded. After anesthesia with Ketamine 100 mg/kg and Xylazine 10 mg/kg, blood samples were taken and after decapitation, the hippocampus was isolated and the expression of alphaTNF-, IL1beta, and TLR4 genes in this region was measured. RESULTS: Galbanic acid increased the delay in seizure onset, decreased brain and serum nitrite levels, and decreased the expression of alphaTNF-, IL1beta, and TLR4 genes in brain tissue compared to the control group (P < 0.01, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Galbanic acid reduced nitrite and the expression of alphaTNF-, IL1beta, and TLR4, leading to a decrease in neuroinflammation and, as a result, a delay in seizure onset in mice.