Curcumin‐ZnO conjugated nanoparticles confer neuroprotection against ketamine‐induced neurotoxicity

Abstract

AbstractBackgroundNanotechnology and its application to manipulate herbal compounds to design new neuroprotective agents to manage neurotoxicity has recently increased. Cur‐ZnO conjugated nanoparticles were synthesized and used in an experimental model of ketamine–induced neurotoxicity.MethodsCur‐ZnO conjugated nanoparticles were chemically characterized, and the average crystalline size was determined. Forty‐nine adult mice were divided into seven groups of seven animals each. Normal saline was given to control mice (group 1). Ketamine (25 mg/kg) was given to a second group. A third group of mice was given ketamine (25 mg/kg) in combination with curcumin (40 mg/kg), while mice in groups 4, 5, and 6 received ketamine (25 mg/kg) plus Cur‐ZnO nanoparticles (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg). Group 7 received only ZnO (5 mg/kg). All doses were ip for 14 days. Hippocampal mitochondrial quadruple complex enzymes, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptotic characteristics were assessed.ResultsCur‐ZnO nanoparticles and curcumin decreased lipid peroxidation, GSSG content, IL‐1β, TNF‐α, and Bax levels while increasing GSH and antioxidant enzymes like GPx, GR, and SOD while increasing Bcl‐2 level and mitochondrial quadruple complex enzymes in ketamine treatment groups.ConclusionThe neuroprotective properties of Cur‐ZnO nanoparticles were efficient in preventing ketamine‐induced neurotoxicity in the mouse brain. The nanoparticle form of curcumin (Cur‐ZnO) required lower doses to produce neuroprotective effects against ketamine‐induced toxicity than conventional curcumin.