Neuroprotective effect of Bellis perennis and Hypericum perforatum on PC12 cells

Abstract

The rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cell line is widely applied as a model system to study a variety of neuronal functions. Upon addition of nerve growth factor (NGF), these cells undergo differentiation characterized by an increase in acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, and extension of neurite-like processes. Oxidative stress is implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative disorders and the purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Bellis perennis (Be) and Hypericum perforatum (Hy) (6C and 30C) on healthy neuronal cells. Both homeopathic medicines have been studied at three different concentrations of 2 μl/ml, 4 μl/ml and 8 μl/ml for 96 h in PC12 cells differentiated with NGF. The cell viability was tested by MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) and NRU (Neutral Red Uptake). To observe the oxidative damage and evaluate the antioxidative status after exposure to homeopathic medicines, the level of thiobarbituric acid reactive species (TBARS), glutathione (GSH) level, activities of glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione reductase (GR), AcetylCholine Esterase (AChE), Na+K+ATPase and Monoamine Oxidase (MAO) were assayed. These results were compared with positive control (90% alcohol). The content of LPO was significantly decreased in drug treated groups as compared to positive control while the level of GSH was significantly increased. The activities of all other enzymes were significantly restored in drug treated groups as compared to positive control. In conclusion, these medicines have preventive role on differentiated PC 12 cells.