Tanshinone IIA protects against dopaminergic neuron degeneration via regulation of DJ-1 and Nrf2/HO-1 pathways in a rodent model of Parkinson’s disease

Purpose: To study the potential neuroprotective effects of tanshinone IIA, a diterpene quinone, in an experimental model 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1, 2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP)-induced Parkinson disease (PD).
 Methods: Mice (C57BL/6) were administered freshly-prepared MPTP at dose 20 mg/kg body weight intraperitoneally, 4 times 2-h intervals, to induce PD. Doses 12.5, 25 and 50 IIA mice as treatments for Pole Rota-rod tests carried out assess muscular coordination bradykinesia. Protein expressions, reactive oxygen species (ROS) malonaldehyde other parameters evaluated.
 Results: Tanshinone doses reduced deficits improved learning ability MPTP-treated mice. It also loss tyrosine hydroxylase (TH)- positive neurons following MPTP-induction. regulated apoptotic pathway proteins, i.e., Bax Bcl-2, inhibited translocation Cyt C mitochondria. Oxidative stress induced by was significantly via up-regulation DJ-1/Nrf2 /HO-1 expression reduction ROS MDA levels. Brain tissue total glutathione content increased treatment.
 Conclusion: effectively improves antioxidant status reduces neuronal treatment. These results indicate that exerts protective MPTPinduced PD Thus, has good use therapy