Abstract

AMLODIPINE (BESYLATE) EFFECTS ON MEMORY, PSYCHOMOTOR ACTIVITIES AND SOME BIOCHEMICAL MARKERS ON CADMIUM-INDUCED BRAIN TOXICITY IN WISTAR RATS

Semeni Semeni, Ukoro Blessing* and Arthur Nwafor Chuemere

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Abstract

In the present investigation, Wistar rats subjected to cadmium toxicity were used to examine the effects of amlodipine on memory, psychomotor activities, and some biochemical markers. In this study, 24 Wistar rats with average weight of 115g were separated into 4 groups. Group 1 served as the control group and received regular animal feed and water as needed. In the first phase of the study, all the experimental groups had daily oral administration of 25mg/kg of cadmium for 3 weeks prior to the administration of amlodipine. While in the second phase, Group 2 received 3 mg/kg of amlodipine, Group 3 received 5 mg/kg, and Group 4 received 7 mg/kg alongside the continuous administration of cadmium. The administration of test drugs lasted for 4 weeks, and neurobehavioural tests, including the Barnes Maze, Navigation Maze, and Passive Avoidance tests, were conducted on a weekly basis. After 4 weeks of treatment, animals were sacrificed, and brain tissues were homogenized for acetylcholinesterase, levels of antioxidants, & nitric oxide assays using Elisa Kits. It was found that cadmium was harmful to memory and psychomotor function. While there were no substantial modifications in nitric oxide, Cadmium significantly downregulate total antioxidant capacity, and increased activities of acetylcholinesterase. However, the effects of Cadmium was ameliorated with amlodipine administration.

Keywords: Cadmium toxicity, Amlodipine, Psychomotor activities, memory, acetylcholinesterase, antioxidant.