Effects of Thymoquinone on Oxidative Stress and Behavior in Mercury-exposed Rats

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Black Sea Journal of Health Science
Cilt: 8 Sayı: 5
Effects of Thymoquinone on Oxidative Stress and Behavior in Mercury-exposed Rats

Effects of Thymoquinone on Oxidative Stress and Behavior in Mercury-exposed Rats

Authors : Dilek Kuzay

Pages : 182-189

Doi:10.19127/bshealthscience.1698368

View : 102 | Download : 119

Publication Date : 2025-09-15

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :Mercury (Hg) is widely used in nature. It is a substance that has toxic effects even in small amounts. Thymoquinone (TQ) is the main active phenolic compound obtained from the essential oil of Nigella sativa L. (black cumin) seed. The protective effects of TQ against diseases and toxic compounds have been studied for a long time. Aim: This study aimed to investigate the effect of TQ on oxidative stress and behavior in rats exposed to mercury. In this study, 24 adult male Wistar Albino rats weighing between 250±20 g were used. 5 mg/kg Hg and 10 mg/kg TQ were given via intragastric gavage for 21 days. Animals were randomly divided into four groups. Group 1 is the Control, Group 2 TQ (10 mg/kg), Group 3 Hg (5 mg/kg), Group 4 Hg (5 mg/kg) + TQ (10 mg/kg). Open field test and forced swimming test were performed to examine locomotor activity, anxiety, and depression-like behaviors in rats. At the end of the experiment, Malondialdehyde (MDA), total nitric oxide (NO), and reduced glutathione (GSH/RSH) levels were examined in cerebral cortex and plasma. In the open field test, Hg+TQ treatment increased the number of crossings and time spent in the center (P<0.01). In the forced swim test, Hg+TQ treatment increased the swimming and climbing time (respectively P<0.01, P<0.001) and decreased the immobility time (P=0.001). In cerebral cortex and plasma, TQ treatment decreased the increased MDA and NO levels (p=0.01) and increased the decreased GSH/RSH levels (P<0.01) as a result of Hg exposure. Mercury exposure increased oxidative stress in plasma and cerebral cortex, causing anxiety and depression-like behaviors. TQ is can be used to improve some behavioral changes and reduce oxidative stress in Hg-exposed rats.
Keywords : Mercury, Behavior, Oxidative stress, Nigella sativa, Rats, Antioxidants

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