Modulatory effect of PPAR-γ on restoration of BDNF in hippocampus of β-amyloid animal model of Alzheimer’s disease

PPAR-γ agonists have been reported to provide neuroprotective effects against neurodegenerative diseases. The current study was carried out to investigate the effects of chronic administration of pioglitazone, a PPAR-γ agonist, on cognitive impairment in an animal model of Alzheimer’s disease induced by β-amyloid. Wistar rats received ICV β-amyloid (βA) application (3 nmol/ 3 µL), and behavioral alterations (locomotor activity and memory performance) were assessed. Animals were sacrificed immediately following the last behavioral session, their brains removed and dissected. Mitochondrial enzymes, oxidative parameters, inflammatory mediators (TNF-α, IL-6), caspase activity and BDNF levels were measured in the hippocampus. ICV βA-treated rats showed a memory deficit and significantly decreased BDNF level, simultaneously, increase in mitochondrial oxidative damage and inflammatory mediators in the hippocampus. Memory impairment and oxidative damage was reversed by administration of pioglitazone (15 and 30 mg/kg). Pioglitazone also significantly restored the BDNF level and attenuated the actions of inflammatory markers in ICV βA-treated rats. However, pretreatment with PPAR-γ antagonist BADGE (15mg/kg) with higher dose of pioglitazone significantly reversed its protective action in memory impairment in βA-treated rats, which indicates the involvement of PPAR- γ receptors mediating neuroprotective action. These results demonstrate that pioglitazone offers protection against β-amyloid induced memory dysfunction possibly due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic action and neurogenesis like effect therefore, could have a therapeutic potential in Alzheimer’s disease