Neuroprotective Effect of Sweet Potato Petiole and Leaf Dry-Powder in a Gerbil Model of Transient Cerebral Ischaemia.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of sweet potato petioles and leaves (PL), which are rich in polyphenols with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, using a gerbil model of transient cerebral ischaemia. We also evaluated the preventive potential of continuous PL intake against ischaemic brain injury. METHODS: Custom diets, formulated by adding 1% or 10% PL powder to MF standard diet, were provided ad libitum to gerbils after a 5-min bilateral common carotid artery occlusion for 7 days (post-ischaemia PL providing group). Diets were also provided from 7 days before to 7 days after the ischaemic episode (pre-ischaemia PL providing group, total 14 days). The number of viable neurons in the hippocampal CA1 region was assessed on postoperative Day 7. RESULTS: The number of viable neurons was significantly higher in both post- and pre-10% PL groups compared with that in the MF group (43.90&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;3.28 in MF, 66.55&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;6.60 in post 10% PL and 69.56&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;3.30 in pre 10% PL; p&#xa0;<&#xa0;0.01), although no significant differences were observed in the post- and pre-1% PL groups (55.49&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;3.19 in post 1% PL 47.27&#xa0;&#xb1;&#xa0;2.61 in pre 1% PL). Moreover, comparison between the pre- and post-10% PL groups indicated that pre-ischaemic administration resulted in slightly higher number of viable neurons. CONCLUSION: Continuous intake of sweet potato PL may support the prevention and mitigation of neuronal damage in ischaemic events.