PERSPECTIVE IN THE TREATMENT OF ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE: PRE-CLINICAL STUDY

Objective: This study end to investigate the efficacy of α-chymotrypcin in management of Alzheimer's disease (AD) in the experimental model. Methods: Sixty adult female albino rats were divided into four groups, (1) normal control group, (2) rats underwent surgery to remove ovaries (Ovex group), (3) Ovx rats received aluminum chloride to induced AD (AD group) and (4) AD rats treated with α-chymotrypcin (α-ch group). Results: In comparison with the normal control group, the Ovx group recorded significant increase in the brain level of transforming growth factor-β, while the brain levels of brain derived neurotrophic factor and vascular endothelial growth factor were significantly decreased. Similarly, AD group displayed the same effect versus the Ovex  group. Treatment of AD group with α-chymotrypcin resulted in significant improvement in the biochemical parameters as compared to untreated AD group. These results were confirmed by the histological examination of brain tissue. Conclusion: The current study suggests that α-chymotrypcin has a potent role in restraining AD due to its proteolytic and anti-inflammatory activity.