Effects of polyphenolic extract from purple-yam (Dioscorea alata L.) on pentylenetetrazole-induced epileptic seizures: the zebrafish as a model.

Abstract

Epilepsy is a complex neurological disease that affects millions of people worldwide, with a higher prevalence in low- to middle-income countries. Although its pathophysiology is not yet fully understood, evidence suggests a multifaceted interaction in the elicitation of epileptic seizures and their consequences, such as neurotransmitter imbalances, inflammation, oxidative stress, and genetic factors, among others. This diversity results in a wide range of symptoms and treatment challenges, with a significant portion of people with epilepsy being refractory to conventional therapy. Inflammation, driven by the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and the activation of resident immune cells in the brain, can lead to neurodegeneration and neuronal hyperexcitability, key features of epilepsy. Furthermore, oxidative stress, mediated by increased reactive oxygen species (ROS), can damage lipids, proteins, and DNA, exacerbating neuroinflammatory processes and thus contributing to the pathogenesis of epilepsy. Considering these complex interactions, natural substances with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, such as polyphenols, have garnered interest as potential therapeutic agents in epilepsy. Purple yam (Dioscorea alata L.), which is rich in polyphenols, emerges as a promising candidate due to its potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. Besides, it is found in abundance in certain regions of Brazil. This project aims to identify the non-toxic concentrations of purple yam extract and investigate its effects on epileptic seizures using the PTZ-zebrafish model.