EFFECT OF ALOE VERA ON ANIMAL MODELS OF PARKINSON DISEASE IN MICE

Abstract

Aloe vera ( Family: Liliaceae) has been used for the treatment of diabetes, skin disorders and as anti-inflammatory agent. To evaluate the anti-parkinson effect, Rota rod and catalepsy bar models were used. Assessment of oxidative stress was done in the striatal region of the brain by malondialdehyde (MDA) and reduced glutathione (GSH) measurement. A.vera (200 and 400 mg/kg, p.o.) was found to significantly increase the retention time in rota rod test and significantly decrease the latency period in catalepsy bar test as compared to MPTP and haloperidol groups. A.vera was found to have significant anti-oxidative effect in the striatal region of the brain by MDA and GSH measurement. Histopathological analysis of brain tissue of A.vera treated groups revealed minimal neuronal destruction as compared to MPTP and haloperidol groups. Thus it can be proposed that A.vera has a potential anti-parkinson effect in mice.