The effect of Gingko biloba extract and ascorbic acid on mercuryinduced changes on the hippocampus of adult Wistar rat

Mercury, a highly toxic heavy metal, poses a risk to humans, animals, and plants. Gingko biloba has been used to treat various disorders including memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Ascorbic acid, which is known for its antioxidant properties, protects cells from free radicals. This study aimed to examine the protective effects of Gingko biloba extract and ascorbic acid on the hippocampi of adult Wistar rats exposed to mercury. Forty-two rats weighing between 180 to 200 g were divided into seven groups. Group I served as the control, while Group II received mercury (5 mg/kg), group III received mercury (5 mg/kg) + ascorbic acid (100 mg/kg), group IV received mercury (5 mg/kg) + ascorbic acid (500 mg/kg), group V received mercury (5 mg/kg) + Ginkgo biloba (100 mg/kg), group VI received mercury (5 mg/kg) + Ginkgo biloba (500 mg/kg), group VII received mercury (5 mg/kg) + ascorbic acid (100 mg/kg) + Ginkgo biloba (100 mg/kg). Treatment was orally for 21 consecutive days. Results indicated that Group II rats experienced altered feeding patterns, decreased body weight and decreased antioxidant activity levels of glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase; increased the brain weight and malondialdehyde level. In contrast, Groups III to VII, displayed positive outcomes, indicating protective effects against mercury-induced changes. Mercury had detrimental effects on the hippocampus in adult Wistar rats. However, the administration of Gingko biloba extract and ascorbic acid showed potential in mitigating these effects.

Key Words: antioxidant, neurodegeneration, neurotoxicity