Neuro-Protective Impact of Rutin Against Methionine-Induced Hyperhomocysteinemia in Rat Model

Hyperhomocysteinemia HHcy, a pathological condition characterized by an increase in plasma concentration of total homocysteine Hcy, and recognized as a risk factor for several diseases. Rutin is a flavonoid component of plants that possess several pharmacological activities. This study aimed to evaluate the protective effect of supplementing high and low doses of Rutin on the experimentally induced mild Hyperhomocysteinemia. Sixty adult male Wister rats were used, divided into 6 groups as follow: G1: Control ,G2 : Hyperhomocysteinemia, induced by dietary feeding of 10 g/kg of L-methionine ; G3: Rutin (Low dose) rats received Rutin orally (25mg /kg bw/day); G4 : Rutin (High dose) rats received Rutin orally (200 mg/kg bw/day);G5: HHcy+Rutin (Low dose);Group 6: HHcy+Rutin (High dose). The study evaluated serum levels of homocysteine, cystathionine B-synthase, brain indices neurotransmitters, 8-Hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, oxidative biomarkers , DNA fragmentation and histological assessments. Results showed that, Methionine increased levels of serum homocysteine, LDH and 8- Hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine, and reduced serum levels of cystathionine B-synthase, dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine and gamma amino butyric acid. Also, caused dramatic disturbance on levels of oxidative stress biomarkers in brain homogenates. These findings were further supported by the histopathological evaluations and DNA fragmentation. Moreover, results suggested that, consumption of Rutin either in high or low dose posses a protective effect against neurological disorders, induced by methionine. Comparing treatments revealed that, high dose of Rutin was more potent than low one.