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

Abstract

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&#xa0;=&#xa0;8) randomly: control (saline), PD model (rotenone 1.5&#xa0;ml&#xa0;s/c every other day for 3&#xa0;weeks), PD/L-DOPA (6&#xa0;mg/kg/day orally), PD/PRP (0.5&#xa0;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 &#x3b1;-synuclein, TNF-&#x3b1;, IL-1&#x3b2;, 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&#xa0;<&#xa0;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.