Effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Salvia officinalis L. on the activity of catalase and superoxide dismutase in an oxidative stress model created by intracerebroventricular STZ injection in male rats

Introduction: Oxidative stress is the result of imbalance between free radicals and the antioxidant defense mechanisms of the body. Oxidative stress in brain causes dysfunction of brain activities, destruction of neurons, and disorders like Alzheimer disease. In this experimental study, we examined the protective effect of Salvia officinalis L. against oxidative stress induced by intracerebroventricular injection of streptozotocin in male rats. Methods: In the experimental research, Wistar rats were divided into control, sham, and experimental groups. Experimental groups received 25, 50 and 100 mg/kg body weight of hydroalcoholic extract of Salvia officinalis intraperitoneally. After two weeks, surgical procedure was performed on sham and experimental groups and after one week of recovery, streptozotocin was injected intracerebroventricularly (i.c.v-STZ) at 3 mg/kg. Brain hemispheres were separated after four weeks. Finally, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT) levels were measured in brain hemispheres. Results: In the group receiving STZ, CAT and SOD levels were significantly decreased compared to the control group (P<0.001), whereas intraperitoneal injection of different doses of Salvia officinalis leaves extract significantly increased SOD and CAT levels compared to STZ group (P<0.001). Conclusion: These data show that antioxidant effects of Salvia officinalis L. could prevent oxidative stress induced by i.c.v.-STZ injection in the brains of male rats.