Platelet-rich plasma intervention as a therapeutic agent versus L-DOPA in Parkinson's model induced by rotenone in male albino rats.

BACKGROUND

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurological motor illness that occurs as a result of the loss of dopaminergic neurons. Though L-DOPA is the usual treatment, its long-term negative effects necessitate alternative or supplementary medications. PRP was tested in this study as a potential treatment.

METHODS

Forty adult male albino rats were allocated to five groups (n = 8) randomly: control (saline), PD model (rotenone 1.5 ml s/c every other day for 3 weeks), PD/L-DOPA (6 mg/kg/day orally), PD/PRP (0.5 ml PRP i.v. twice weekly), and PD/L-DOPA/PRP (combined) After PD induction, treatments lasted six weeks. Oxidative stress indicators, antioxidant enzymes, pro-inflammatory cytokines, neurotransmitters, and metal ions were measured in striatal tissues. Behavioral assessments were conducted using the rotarod and open-field tests. TH immunohistochemistry and histopathology were also done.

RESULTS

Rotenone injection increased MDA, NO, MAO, calcium, and total iron levels, while decreasing antioxidant enzymes (GPX, GSH, CAT, SOD) and neurotransmitters (dopamine, GABA, serotonin). Significant increase of α-synuclein, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 was seen, along with substantial motor impairments and neuronal death. Combined L-DOPA/PRP supplementation significantly ameliorated Parkinsonian motor deficits, restoring coordination and locomotor activity to near-normal levels. Using PRP alone or in conjunction with L-DOPA reduced oxidative stress markers, increased antioxidant enzyme levels, and decreased pro-inflammatory cytokine expression (p < 0.05). Neurotransmitter levels and motor performance improved significantly in treated groups, especially PD/L-DOPA/PRP. Histological study demonstrated greater striatal architecture preservation and higher TH expression in treated groups, with combination therapy showing the greatest results.

CONCLUSION

These data imply that concomitant PRP treatment may reduce L-DOPA dosages, reducing side effects while preserving therapeutic efficacy.