Effect of Dose-Related Astaxanthin on Rats with Cerebral Ischemia-Reperfusion

Introduction: The prevalence of cerebral ischemia-related diseases, which mostly affect the brain, has become pervasive and is associated with significant societal and economic challenges. The deficiency of the organism’s antioxidant defense system results in an elevation of free radicals, which in turn contributes to the development of a range of illnesses and aging processes, with a particular emphasis on cancer. The objective of our research was to examine the potential protective impact of astaxanthin (AST) on the antioxidant system inside the brain. Material and Method: Within the experimental framework, a total of 32 male rats were utilized, with each group consisting of 8 rats separated into 4 subgroups. Dimethyl sulfoxide and AST were delivered intraperitoneally to the rats 30 minutes before to the surgery. A 15-minute period of ischemia was conducted. After a period of 24 hours of reperfusion, the rats underwent decapitation. Malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) levels were analyzed and brain sections were examined. Results: A significant decrease in the levels of SOD and CAT was observed in the sham group, while a significant increase was observed in the group treated with AST. This indicates that the antioxidant defense system is insufficient against the free radicals that increase after ischemia, while AST has a significant protective effect on the antioxidant system. The significant increase in MDA levels in the sham group suggests that oxidative damage occurs in the brain. In the groups administered AST, we observed a significant decrease. This indicates to us that AST has an extensive protective effect on the brain at high doses. In the sham group, significant damage and a high number of necrotic neurons were observed in the cerebral cortex. Neurons with less damage were observed in the groups treated with AST. The histological data suggest that AST may have a limited neuroprotective effect. Conclusion: The results show that AST has some preventive effect in reducing oxidative damage and against brain damage. In order to increase the objectivity and clarity of the histological evaluations, it will be useful to perform quantitative analyzes and evaluations and to categorize the detected changes. Keywords: Ischemia-reperfusion, common carotid artery, free radicals, antioxidants, astaxanthin, tissue damage.