Leaf Extract Reduced BBB Permeability and Improved Neurological Results after Traumatic Brain Injury: The Role of Oxidative Stress.

Introduction: Recognizing the importance of medicinal plants and the absence of specific medications for traumatic brain injury (TBI) treatment, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of an aqueous extract of on oxidative stress, blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability, and neurological scores following TBI.

Materials And Methods: Adult male rats were categorized into five groups: sham, TBI, vehicle, low-dose (LA), and high-dose (HA). We induced diffuse TBI using the Marmaro model and administered the aqueous leaf extract, as well as vehicle, via intraperitoneal injection half an hour after TBI. Neurological outcomes were assessed both before and several hours after TBI. Additionally, oxidative stress factors were measured 24 hr after TBI, and Evans blue content (a BBB permeability index) was determined 5 hr after TBI in both serum and brain.

Results: Both LA and HA reduced the increase in BBB permeability after TBI, with HA having a more pronounced effect than LA. Both doses decreased brain MDA levels, increased brain TAC, and lowered both serum and brain PC levels. The impact of on brain oxidative parameters was more significant than on serum. HA also counteracted the declining effects of TBI on neurological outcomes at 4 and 24 hr post-TBI.

Conclusion: This study suggests that extract may reduce BBB permeability and improve neurological outcomes after TBI by decreasing oxidative factors and increasing antioxidant factors.