Neuroprotective effects of Lepidium meyenii (Maca).
The neuroprotective activity of the plant Lepidium meyenii (Maca) was studied in two experimental models: in vitro and in vivo. Crayfish neurons were pretreated with vehicle or the pentane extract from Maca, subjected to H(2)O(2), and their viability determined microscopically and chemically. A significant concentration-neuroprotective effect relationship was demonstrated. The pentane extract was then administered intravenously to rats prior to and following middle cerebral artery occlusion. While infarct volumes were decreased for the lower dose, higher doses increased infarct volumes compared to controls. These results suggest a potential application of Maca as a neuroprotectant.
Pino-Figueroa
Alejandro
A
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA. alejandro.pino@my.mcphs.edu
Nguyen
Diane
D
Maher
Timothy J
TJ
D000818:Animals; D003400:Astacoidea; D002545:Brain Ischemia / Q000517:prevention & control; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D066298:In Vitro Techniques; D020244:Infarction, Middle Cerebral Artery / Q000473:pathology; D029686:Lepidium / Q000737:chemistry*; D008297:Male; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000494:pharmacology*; D051381:Rats; D017207:Rats, Sprague-Dawley
D018696:Neuroprotective Agents; D010936:Plant Extracts