Conclusion
Crocin recovered spatial learning and memory defects induced by BPA in part through anti-oxidant activity and modulation the expression of AMPA receptor in rat hippocampus.
Methods
Rats were orally treated with BPA (100 mg/kg) or sesame seed oil in control group for 28 days. Crocin (10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, IP) was administrated in BPA-orally treated groups for 28 days. Memory and learning functions were evaluated by Morris water maze. The level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) contents were determined in rat hippocampus. Additionally, the expression of NMDA and AMPA receptors were analyzed using Western blot method.
Results
Administration of BPA significantly reduced memory and learning functions. Crocin significantly protected against learning and memory impairments induced by BPA. BPA administration markedly reduced GSH content and induced lipid peroxidation, while crocin was able to increase GSH content in rat hippocampus. The expression of NMDA receptor did not change in BPA-treated rats, while the significant reduction in AMPA receptor expression was observed. Moreover, crocin (20 mg/kg) significantly elevated the expression of AMPA receptor.