Epigallocatechin gallate protects fluoride induced neurotoxicity

Fluoride (Fl) exposure engenders neurodegeneration in the brain. The Neuroprotective role of EGCG against Fl induced neurotoxicity in rat hippocampus has not yet been explored so far. In this present exploration we focused to witness whether EGCG (40mg/kg) prevents the Fl induced oxidative stress in the brain of rats with special emphasis on hippocampus. Fl (25mg/kg) intoxication for 4 weeks shows decreased neurotransmitters (AChE, NP, DA and 5-HT) in the brain. The oxidative stress markers (ROS, TBARS, NO and PC) were significantly increased with decreased enzymatic (SOD, CAT, GPx, GR, GST, and G6PD) and non-enzymatic antioxidants (GSH, TSH and Vit.C) in Fl intoxicated rat hippocampus. Moreover, Fl intoxicated rats showed an intrinsic and extrinsic pathway mediated apoptosis in the hippocampus of rats. Fl significantly increased the DNA damage as evidenced by increased DNA fragmentation. Furthermore, the toxic impact of Fl on hippocampus was also proved by the immunohistochemical, histological and ultra-structural studies. Pre-administration of EGCG significantly protected the rat brain and hippocampus against Fl ROS by its strong antioxidant and free radical scavenging ability.