XML The effect of probiotics mixture on learning and spatial memory in kindled rats

Abstract

Background: Repeated seizure attacks lead to extensive neuronal damage and cognitive impairment such as memory loss and learning. Probiotics are shown to have some protective actions against neurological disorders. The present study aimed to examine the effect of probiotics on learning, memory and the nitric oxide level in kindled rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 40 male rats were randomly divided into five groups: control, kindled with penthylenetetrazole (PTZ), kindled and valproic acid (VPA), kindled after probiotic treatment (probiotic + PTZ), and kindled before probiotic treatment (PTZ + probiotic). The animals were treated by a mixture of probiotics for 4 weeks. Chemical kindling was induced by intraperitoneal injection of PTZ (35 mg/kg) every 48 hours for 24 days. The learning and spatial memory were evaluated by the Morris water maze. The serum nitric oxide level was assessed by the Miranda method. Results: No significant difference was observed between the control and VPA groups in terms of memory, learning and serum levels of nitric oxide. Learning (P<0.001) and spatial memory (P<0.05) phenomena were improved in the probiotic supplemented groups compared to the PTZ group. Also, serum nitric oxide levels were reduced in the probiotic supplemented groups (P<0.05). Conclusion: Probiotic supplementation reduces the level of nitric oxide and improves the learning and memory process.

Keywords

• Probiotics
• Spatial memory
• Chemical kindling
• Rat