Specific Conditions for Resveratrol Neuroprotection against Ethanol-Induced Toxicity

Abstract

Aims. 3,5,4′-Trihydroxy-trans-stilbene, a natural polyphenolic compound present in wine and grapes and better known as resveratrol, has free radical scavenging properties and is a potent protector against oxidative stress induced by alcohol metabolism. Today, the mechanism by which ethanol exerts its toxicity is still not well understood, but it is generally considered that free radical generation plays an important role in the appearance of structural and functional alterations in cells. The aim of this study was to evaluate the protective action of resveratrol against ethanol-induced brain cell injury. Methods. Primary cultures of rat astrocytes were exposed to ethanol, with or without a pretreatment with resveratrol. We examined the dose-dependent effects of this resveratrol pretreatment on cytotoxicity and genotoxicity induced by ethanol. Cytotoxicity was assessed using the MTT reduction test. Genotoxicity was evidenced using single cell gel electrophoresis. In addition, DNA staining with fluorescent dyes allowed visualization of nuclear damage using confocal microscopy. Results. Cell pretreatment with low concentrations of trans-resveratrol (0.1–10 μM) slowed down cell death and DNA damage induced by ethanol exposure, while higher concentrations (50–100 μM) enhanced these same effects. No protection by cis-resveratrol was observed. Conclusion. Protection offered by trans-resveratrol against ethanol-induced neurotoxicity was only effective for low concentrations of this polyphenol.

Polyphenols and DNA Damage: A Mixed Blessing

“…At a lower concentration, it protected human epithelial cells against SBs and MN induced by sodium arsenite [88], and rat astrocytes against SBs caused by ethanol [91]. However, a low dose enhanced the frequency of γ-H2AX foci after ionising irradiation of prostate epithelial cells [90].…”

Substance Abuse and Movement Disorders: Complex Interactions and Comorbidities

“…In regards to the putative neuroprotective effects of wine and grapes that is presumably mediated mainly by Resveratrol, recent data suggest that the beneficial effects of this compound, if any, may be present only at lower concentrations [137]. Thus, as with essential tremor patients, a conservative approach in M-D patients is encouraged, by counseling them on their increased potential for alcohol abuse, and to advice them to drink only in moderation, if at all.…”

The Resveratrol Attenuates Ethanol‐Induced Hepatocyte Apoptosis Via Inhibiting ER‐Related Caspase‐12 Activation and PDE Activity In Vitro

“…The plant polyphenol ResV (3, 5, 4‐trihydroxy‐ trans‐ stilbene), is a naturally occurring stilbene found in the skin of red grapes and certain medicinal plants. At present, ResV is believed to provide protection against various infections and stress (Gonthier et al., ). It exhibits a wide range of pharmacological effects, including prevention of heart disorders, blocking of lipoprotein oxidation, free radical scavenging, prevention of apoptosis, and inhibition of platelet aggregation (Shakibaei et al., ).…”