To check the glioprotective effect of Withaferin A on C6 Glioma cell Culture challenged with Kainic Acid

Abstract

Last many years perception of glial cell function in CNS has been changed. In fact abnormalities in glial cells also contribute to various disorders. Glutamate induced excitotoxicity attributed to various CNS related diseases. Kainic acid is a potent agonist of kainate receptors, a subclass of glutamate receptors, is 30 fold more neurotoxic than glutamate. Natural herbal extracts are attracting researchers for their pharmacologic properties against diseases associated with CNS. Root and leaf extracts of Withania somnifera, used since many years to treat several diseases in traditional medicine system. Present study was designed to see the glioprotective potential of Withaferin A, a natural extract from Withania somnifera or Ashwagandha, against Kainic acid induced excitotoxicity in C6 glioma cell line. Pretreatment of 0.5 µM Withaferin A showed defensive potential against 100 µM and 200 µM concentration of Kainic acid. To check expression of GFAP (well known marker of astrocytes) and NCAM, Immunocytochemistry was performed. Withaferin A treatment helps in normalizing of GFAP (Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein) and NCAM (Neural Cell Adhesion Molecule) expression in kainic acid exposed cells. Our result suggested that Withaferin A have defensive potential against kainic acid induced excitotoxicity. As a potent glioprotective agent, Withaferin A could be used as therapeutic drug to treat glioblastomas and other neurological disorders.