Nrf2/Bach1-ARE pathway are involved in the ameliorative effects of astaxanthin on D-galactose-induced liver and brain aging and injury.

Astaxanthin (ATX), a natural antioxidant whose benefits in age-related liver and kidney damage remain unclear. We established a D-galactose-induced ageing model in rats and observed the daily behaviour of the rats. Using staining methods to detect ROS, apoptosis and histopathological changes in liver and brain tissue. Determination of antioxidant levels of IL-2, IL-6 and AGES in rats. Assessment of cognitive function using the Morris water maze and ChAT. The mRNA and protein expression levels of Nrf2, Bach1, SOD1, SOD2, HO-1 were determined by real-time PCR and Western blotting. To investigate the role of the Nrf2/Bach1-ARE pathway, we used ML385, a specific inhibitor of the Nrf2 pathway, to treat rats in the inhibitor group. Aging rats showed impaired learning and memory, along with decreased levels of neurotransmitters and antioxidant enzymes. ATX and vitamin E (VE) interventions significantly alleviated these symptoms and activated the Nrf2/Bach1-ARE pathway in liver and brain tissues of aged SD rats. Furthermore, the protective effects of ATX were attenuated by the addition of the Nrf2 inhibitor ML385. ATX reduces oxidative stress and ameliorates liver and brain damage in aged rats via activation of the Nrf2/Bach1-ARE pathway.