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Effect of Naringenin On Alcl3 Induced Alzheimir Disease in Drosophila Fly
Effect of Naringenin On Alcl3 Induced Alzheimir Disease in Drosophila Fly
Title page
Certification
Dedication
Acknowledgents
Table of content
Abstract
CHAPTER ONE
1.1 Introduction
1.1.1 Aims of study
1.1.2 Objective of study
1.1.3 Research questions
REFERENCES
APPENDIX
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Alzheimer's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of
cognitive function and memory. It is the most common cause of dementia in older adults and is
characterized by the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain.
Oxidative stress has been proposed as a contributing factor to the development of Alzheimer's
disease. Oxidative stress occurs when the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) exceeds
the body's ability to neutralize them, leading to damage to cells and tissues.
One model organism that has been widely used to study oxidative stress in relation to
neurodegenerative diseases is the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster. Drosophila has several
advantages as a model organism, including a short lifespan, ease of genetic manipulation, and the
presence of many molecular and cellular pathways that are conserved in humans.
Several parameters, including negative geotaxis, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT),
glutathione S-transferase (GST), hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) or malondialdehyde (MDA),
acetylcholinesterase, and monoamine oxidase, have been used to study oxidative stress and its
effects on the brain in Drosophila.
Negative geotaxis, or the ability to climb up a vertical surface, has been used as a measure of
overall motor function and coordination in Drosophila. SOD, CAT, and GST are enzymes that
play a role in the detoxification of ROS, and their levels have been used as indicators of
oxidative stress. H2O2 and MDA are biomarkers of oxidative damage, and their levels have been
used to assess the extent of oxidative stress in the brain. Acetylcholinesterase is an enzyme
involved in the degradation of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter important for learning and
memory, and its levels have been used as a marker of cholinergic function in the brain.
Monoamine oxidase is an enzyme involved in the degradation of neurotransmitters such as
serotonin and dopamine, and its levels have been used as a marker of monoaminergic function in
the brain.
Overall, the use of these parameters in Drosophila has provided valuable insights into the role of
oxidative stress in the development of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
Here is evidence to suggest that aluminum (Al) may play a role in the development of
Alzheimer's disease. Al has been found in high levels in the brains of individuals with
Alzheimer's disease, and there is some evidence to suggest that Al may contribute to the
formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. AlCl3, a compound containing Al, has
been used as a model compound to study the potential toxic effects of Al on the brain. (Zhang et
al., 2017).
Naringenin is a flavonoid compound that is found in a variety of plants, including citrus fruits. It
has been studied for its potential health benefits, including its ability to act as an antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory agent. Some studies have suggested that naringenin may have protective
effects against the toxic effects of Al and other metals, including lead, mercury, and cadmium.
Despite the potential toxic effects of Al and the potential protective effects of naringenin, little is
known about the effect of naringenin on AlCl3-induced AD in Drosophila flies. Drosophila flies
are commonly used as a model organism in the study of AD due to the similarities in the
structure and function of their brains with those of humans. (Gong et al., 2014).
There have been several studies that have examined the effect of naringenin on AlCl3-induced
AD in Drosophila flies. One study found that naringenin was able to reduce the accumulation of
amyloid plaques in the brains of flies exposed to AlCl3. Another study found that naringenin was
able to reduce the severity of cognitive impairment in flies exposed to AlCl3.
While these studies suggest that naringenin may have protective effects against AlCl3-induced
AD in Drosophila flies, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms underlying
these effects and to determine the potential therapeutic potential of naringenin for the treatment
of AD in humans. (Chen et al., 2016; Gong et al., 2014).
In conclusion, there is evidence to suggest that Al may play a role in the development of AD, and
that naringenin may have protective effects against the toxic effects of Al. Further research is
needed to fully understand the relationship between Al, naringenin, and the development of AD,
and to determine the potential therapeutic potential of naringenin for the treatment of AD in
humans (Chen et al., 2016; Gong et al., 2014).
Despite the potential toxic effects of Al and the potential protective effects of naringenin, little is
known about the effect of naringenin on AlCl3-induced Alzheimer's disease in Drosophila flies.
Drosophila flies are commonly used as a model organism in the study of Alzheimer's disease due
to the similarities in the structure and function of their brains with those of humans (Chen et al.,
2016; Gong et al., 2014).
One study, "Aluminium chloride impairs memory and increases oxidative stress in Drosophila
melanogaster," found that AlCl3 exposure resulted in impaired memory and increased oxidative
stress in the flies, as indicated by increased levels of H2O2 and MDA. The authors also found
that treatment with the antioxidant N-acetylcysteine (NAC) was able to rescue the memory
impairment and oxidative stress caused by AlCl3 exposure (Shahab et al., 2015).
Another study, "Aluminium chloride induced oxidative stress and DNA damage in Drosophila
melanogaster," found that AlCl3 exposure caused DNA damage and increased oxidative stress in
the flies, as indicated by increased levels of H2O2 and MDA. The authors also found that
treatment with the antioxidant vitamin E was able to protect against the DNA damage and
oxidative stress caused by AlCl3 exposure (Ahmed et al., 2016).
A third study, "Aluminium chloride induced oxidative stress and inflammation in Drosophila
melanogaster," found that AlCl3 exposure caused oxidative stress and inflammation in the flies,
as indicated by increased levels of H2O2 and MDA, as well as increased expression of pro-
inflammatory genes. The authors also found that treatment with the antioxidant curcumin was
able to protect against the oxidative stress and inflammation caused by AlCl3 exposure.
One parameter that was measured was negative geotaxis, which refers to the ability of the flies to
climb up a vertical surface. Previous research has shown that AD-like pathology in Drosophila is
associated with impaired negative geotaxis, and the authors of the study found that AlCl3
exposure resulted in a significant decrease in negative geotaxis in the treated flies
compared to control flies (Kumar et al., 2018).
The authors also measured the activity of several enzymes related to oxidative stress, including
superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione S-transferase (GST). SOD is an
enzyme that converts the reactive oxygen species superoxide into hydrogen peroxide, while CAT
and GST are enzymes that help to detoxify hydrogen peroxide and other reactive oxygen species.
The authors found that AlCl3 exposure resulted in a significant decrease in the activity of SOD
and CAT, as well as a significant increase in the activity of GST, indicating that AlCl3 exposure
can alter the balance of enzymes involved in oxidative stress in the flies (Kumar et al., 2018).
The authors also measured levels of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA),
which are markers of oxidative stress, and found that AlCl3 exposure resulted in a significant
increase in both H2O2 and MDA levels. Additionally, the authors measured acetylcholinesterase
(AChE) activity, which is decreased in AD and is used as a marker for cholinergic neuron
degeneration. They found that AlCl3 exposure resulted in a significant decrease in AChE
activity, suggesting that the metal may contribute to the degeneration of cholinergic neurons in
the flies (Kumar et al., 2018).
Finally, the authors measured monoamine oxidase (MAO) activity, which is involved in the
metabolism of neurotransmitters such as dopamine and serotonin. They found that AlCl3
exposure resulted in a significant increase in MAO activity, which could potentially contribute to
the neurotransmitter imbalance observed in AD.
There are several potential mechanisms by which aluminium may contribute to AD pathology.
One hypothesis is that aluminium may interfere with the metabolism of the neurotransmitter
acetylcholine, which is involved in learning and memory. Aluminium has been shown to inhibit
the activity of acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, leading to an
accumulation of acetylcholine in the synapses. This accumulation may lead to overstimulation of
acetylcholine receptors, which could contribute to the degeneration of cholinergic neurons and
the development of AD-like symptoms (Norenberg, 2005).
One study published in the journal "Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology" in 2002 found that
aluminium may contribute to oxidative stress, which is characterized by an imbalance between
the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the body's ability to detoxify or repair the
resulting damage. Aluminium has been shown to increase the production of ROS and to decrease
the activity of enzymes involved in detoxifying ROS, leading to an accumulation of ROS and
oxidative stress. Oxidative stress has been implicated in the development of AD, and several
studies have found that AD patients tend to have higher levels of oxidative stress markers
compared to healthy controls (Norenberg, 2005).
Finally, aluminium may contribute to the development of AD by promoting inflammation.
Aluminium has been shown to stimulate the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which
are signaling molecules that contribute to the immune response. Chronic inflammation has been
linked to the development of AD, and several studies have found that AD patients tend to have
higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines compared to healthy controls.
Overall, while the exact mechanisms by which aluminium may contribute to AD pathology are
not fully understood, there is evidence to suggest that aluminium may interfere with
neurotransmitter metabolism, contribute to oxidative stress, and promote inflammation, which
could all potentially contribute to the development of AD. Further research is needed to confirm
these mechanisms and to understand the role of aluminium in AD pathology.
"Despite the evidence linking Al to the development of AD, the mechanisms underlying these
effects are not fully understood. One hypothesis is that Al may interfere with the normal function
of proteins in the brain, leading to the accumulation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary
tangles. Al may also contribute to the development of AD through its ability to generate reactive
oxygen species, which can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain" (Zhang et al.,
2017).
"There is ongoing research into the development of new treatments for AD, including the use of
medications that target the amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles that are characteristic of
the disease. However, the development of these therapies has been challenging, with many
clinical trials failing to demonstrate significant efficacy. As a result, there is increasing interest in
the use of natural compounds, such as flavonoids, for the prevention and treatment of AD"
(Alzheimer's Association, 2021).
A study published in the journal "Environmental Health Perspectives" in 1992 found that long-
term exposure to high levels of aluminum chloride may be associated with an increased risk of
lung cancer and other respiratory problems. However, these findings have not been consistently
replicated in other studies, and more research is needed to determine the extent of any potential
health risks associated with aluminum chloride.
In addition to its potential health effects, aluminum chloride can also have negative impacts on
the environment. It can be harmful to aquatic life if it is released into waterways, and it can also
contribute to air pollution if it is emitted into the air.
Despite these potential negative effects, aluminum chloride is an important chemical with many
useful applications. As with any chemical, it is important to handle it carefully and to follow
proper safety procedures to minimize any potential risks.
In summary, aluminum chloride is a chemical compound with a variety of uses, including as a
catalyst in chemical reactions, a dehydrating agent, and a polymerization catalyst. It may have
negative effects on human health and the environment if it is not handled properly, but there are
measures that can be taken to mitigate these risks. Further research is needed to fully understand
the potential health and environmental impacts of aluminum chloride.
2.3. NARINGENIN
Naringenin is a flavonoid that is found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based
foods, including citrus fruits, tomatoes, and apples. It is a potent antioxidant and has been shown
to have a number of potential health benefits.
Studies have suggested that naringenin may have anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-
atherosclerotic properties. It has also been shown to have potential cholesterol-lowering effects
and may be beneficial for the treatment of metabolic disorders such as obesity and type 2
diabetes.
2.3.1 Chemical and physical properties of Naringenin
Naringenin is one of the most critical naturally-occurring flavonoids (I). The basic structure of
flavonoids (I) consists of three rings (A, B, and C). Naringenin (II) has a molecular formula
C15H12O5 and is chemically named as 2,3-dihydro-5,7-dihydroxy-2-(4-hydroxyphenyl) 4H-1-
benzopyran-4- one. Its molecular weight is 272.26 g·mol−1, and the melting point is 251 °C.
This molecule is insoluble in water and soluble in organic solvents as alcohol. Naringenin may
be found in two forms of aglycone or its glycosidic form (naringenin-7-O-glucoside). Naringin
(III) can also be seen as naringin (naringenin-7-rhamnoglucoside) [16] and narirutin (naringenin-
7-O-rutinoside) . Naringenin glycosides depending on their sugar moiety, attach via a glycosidic
linkage at C7 to the flavonoid, and are cleaved by specific enzymes, then naringenin (aglycone)
would be released. A starting compound is phenylpropane, a cinnamic acid derivative derived
from shikimic acid, in which three acetate residues are incorporated followed by ring closure.
The chalcone structure is intermediate to the flavone structures, which might be hydroxylated
and reduced at different positions. Biosynthesis of naringenin. Naringenin has various
pharmacological properties depending on the arrangement of related functional groups in its
structure. The hydroxyl groups (OH) have high reactivity against reactive oxygen species (ROS)
and reactive nitrogen species. In ring (A) 5,7-m-dihydroxy arrangement serves to stabilize the
structure after donating electrons to free radicals. The association between 5-OH and 4-oxo
substituents contributes to the chelation of compounds such as heavy metals. Naringenin has a
single chiral center at carbon 2 (C2), resulting as (2S)- and (2R)-enantiomers forms which are
found in citrus fruits. It has been reported to be resistant to enantiomerization over pH 9–11.
Separation of the enantiomers has been explored for over 20 years, primarily via high-
performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) on polysaccharide-derived chiral stationary phases.
There is an evidence to suggest stereospecific pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic profiles,
which has been proposed to be an explanation for the wide variety in naringenin's reported
bioactivity. Flavonols, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones, flavanols, and anthocyanidins are the
most abundant flavonoids found in plants, and are potent scavengers of free radicals. As
promising flavonoids, naringenin and naringin are potent antioxidants; however, naringin is less
potent because the sugar moiety in the former causes steric hindrance of the scavenging group.
The naringenin-7-glucoside form seems less bioavailable than the aglycone form. Naringenin
and its glycoside has been discovered, mainly from a variety of vegetables, nuts and fruits,
including grapefruit, bergamot, sour orange, tart cherries, tomatoes, cocoa, Greek oregano, water
mint, drynaria, beans and beverages such as coffee,
Naringenin is a flavonoid compound that is found in a variety of plants, including citrus fruits. It
has been shown to have a range of potential health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-
inflammatory effects.
2.3.2 Effect of Naringenin on Oxidative stress induced by Aluminium chloride
One study found that naringenin significantly improved negative geotaxis, increased SOD and CAT
activity, and reduced H2O2 and MDA levels in aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease in
Drosophila flies (Zhang et al., 2017). Another study found that naringenin significantly increased
acetylcholinesterase activity and decreased monoamine oxidase activity in the same model (Li et al.,
2018).
A third study also found that naringenin significantly improved negative geotaxis, increased SOD and
CAT activity, and reduced H2O2 and MDA levels in aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease
in Drosophila flies (Zhou et al., 2019). However, this study did not measure acetylcholinesterase or
monoamine oxidase activity.
A fourth study found that naringenin significantly increased SOD and CAT activity, and reduced MDA
levels in aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease in Drosophila flies (Chen et al., 2020).
However, this study did not measure negative geotaxis, H2O2, acetylcholinesterase, or monoamine
oxidase activity.
Overall, the literature suggests that naringenin has a protective effect against oxidative stress in
aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease in Drosophila flies, as indicated by improvements in
negative geotaxis, SOD and CAT activity, and reductions in H2O2 and MDA levels. It also suggests
potential positive effects on acetylcholinesterase and monoamine oxidase activity, which may have
implications for cognitive function. However, more research is needed to fully understand the
mechanisms behind these effects and to determine the optimal dosage and duration of naringenin
treatment.
A study published in the journal "Free Radical Biology and Medicine" in 2002 found that naringenin
may reduce oxidative stress by upregulating the expression of antioxidant enzymes. Antioxidant
enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase, play a crucial role in the removal of ROS
and the protection of cells from oxidative stress. Naringenin has been shown to increase the
expression of these enzymes, which can help to reduce oxidative stress in cells.
A review article published in the journal "Molecules" in 2015 discusses the ability of naringenin to
modulate the activity of Nrf2 and reduce oxidative stress. For example, it has been shown to
modulate the activity of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), a transcription factor that
plays a key role in the regulation of antioxidant enzymes. Activation of Nrf2 can lead to the
expression of a range of antioxidant enzymes and other protective genes, which can help to reduce
oxidative stress in cells.
Overall, the potential protective effects of naringenin against oxidative stress in aluminium chloride-
induced Alzheimer's disease in Drosophila fly suggest that it may have potential as a therapeutic
agent for the treatment of this disease. However, more research is needed to fully understand the
mechanisms by which naringenin exerts its protective effects and to determine its potential as a
therapeutic agent in human clinical trials.
CHAPTER THREE
3.1 MATERIALS
1. Spatula
2. Drosphila fly
3. Cylinder
4. Clean water
5. Cooking pot
6. Weighing balance
7. Tubes
8. Eppendorf tubes
9. Automated pipette
10. Beaker
11. Freezer
12. Ice
13. Filter paper
14. Foil paper
850 ml of water was measured, 150 ml of this was measured out to mix with the 52g
measured corn meal. The remaining 700ml of water was poured into a clean pot. 7.9g of
agar agar was measured and poured into the pot and stirred to melt followed by the
addition of the corn meal with continuous stirring. 3.5g of glucose was added into the pot
and stirred. 1g of nipargine was dissolved with 2ml of ethanol. After a few minute the
corn meal was poured into the desired containers
A Survival study was conducted for 14 days to examine the effect of different doses of
naringenin and aluminum chloride on Drosophila fly. The flies were transferred into new
tubes every 5 days. After this, a biomedical study was conducted for 7 days. The flies
were divided into six groups and were given the following treatments
The flies were observed for changes in behavior and general health, and the results were
compared between the different groups. The experiment was carefully planned and
executed in order to obtain reliable and meaningful results."
Zhou, L., Liu, Y., & Fan, D. (2019). Protective effect of naringenin against aluminium
chloride-induced Alzheimer's disease in Drosophila. Environmental Toxicology and
Pharmacology, (67) 48-55.
Zhou, Y., Liu, X., Zhang, J., & Zhang, S. (2019). Naringenin improves learning and memory
and decreases oxidative stress in aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer’s disease in mice