THE EFFECT OF PAPAIN AND CHOLECALCIFEROL ON THE CEREBELLUM INJURY OF WISTAR RATS FOLLOWING ISCHEMIC STROKE (BILATERAL COMMON CAROTID ARTERY OCCLUSION)
Abstract
ABSTRACT
Stroke remains a leading global cause of death and disability, with an especially high burden in low- and middle-income countries such as Nigeria. Despite advances in management, ischemic stroke continues to result in significant neurological impairment, including cerebellar injury that contributes to both motor and cognitive dysfunction. The cerebellum’s vulnerability to ischemia, coupled with limited therapeutic options, underscores the need for novel neuroprotective interventions. This study investigates the potential protective effects of papain and cholecalciferol on cerebellar damage following bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) in Wistar rats
Thirty healthy adult male Wistar rats (180–220 g) were randomly divided into six groups (n = 5 per group): control, sham (CHAM), ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI), pre-treatment (vitamin D₃ + papain), post-treatment (vitamin D₃ + papain), and vitamin D₃-only (CHPA). Global cerebral ischemia was induced by bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAO) for 60 minutes, followed by reperfusion. Vitamin D₃ (1 mg/kg) and papain (1 mg/kg) were administered orally once daily for 28 days, either before or after induction. Motor coordination and balance were assessed using rotarod and beam-walk tests. Biochemical analyses of cerebellar tissues included estimation of malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) to evaluate oxidative stress. Histological assessment using H&E, TTC, and Luxol Fast Blue stains was performed to determine neuronal integrity, infarct regions, and myelin preservation Ischemic injury significantly impaired motor coordination, exploratory behaviour, and antioxidant status in Wistar rats. Treatment with papain and cholecalciferol, both pre- and post-induction, markedly improved behavioural performance, including increased centre duration, line crossing, and grooming activity (p
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