Tribulus terrestris
(T.T.) is a
rich source of flavonoids and saponins, which have been reported to
have neuroprotective and antioxidant potential. The current study
was planned to investigate the anti-Parkinson’s activity of
T. terrestris
methanol extract (TTME). It was hypothesized
that TTME possessed antioxidant potential and can ameliorate Parkinson’s
disease (PD) via modulation of α-synuclein, acetylcholinesterase
(AChE), TNF-α, and IL-1β. To test this hypothesis, in
silico and in vivo studies were performed. The PD model in rats was
prepared by giving haloperidol, 1 mg/kg, i.p. Rats were divided into
six groups: control, disease control, standard, and treatment groups
receiving TTME orally at 100, 300, and 1000 mg/kg dose levels for
21 days. Behavioral observations and biochemical analyses were done.
The TTME modulatory effect on mRNA expression of α-synuclein,
AChE, TNF-α, and interleukins in the brain homogenate was estimated
by RT-PCR. Compounds detected in HPLC analysis disrupted the catalytic
triad of AChE in in silico studies. Behavioral observations showed
significant (
p
< 0.05) improvement in a reversal
of catatonia, muscular strength, locomotor functions, stride length,
and exploration in a dose-dependent manner (1000 >300 >100 mg/kg)
of PD rats. Endogenous antioxidant enzyme levels CAT, SOD, GSH, and
GPx were significantly restored at a high dose (
p
< 0.05) with a notable (
p
< 0.05) decrease
in the MDA level in TTME-treated groups. TTME at a high dose significantly
(
p
< 0.05) decreased the level of acetylcholinesterase.
RT-PCR results are showing down-regulation in the mRNA expression
levels of IL-1β, α -synuclein, TNF-α, and AChE in
TTME-treated groups compared to the disease control group, indicating
neuroprotection. It is concluded that TTME has potential to ameliorate
the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
