THE PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF VITAMIN B_(12) ON SPATIAL COGNITIVE ABILITY IMPAIRED BY HOMOCYSTEINE IN RATS / 营养学报

ABSTRACT

Objective: To observe the relationship between homocysteine(Hcy)and spatial cognitive ability and to evaluate whether vitamin B12 supplementation could protect spatial cognitive ability in rats. Methods: The rats were randomized into three groups. The experimental group was given methionine subcutaneously. The intervention group was given methionine and vitamin B12 subcutaneously. The control group received isometric normal saline. After being raised for 8 weeks, all rats were examined for plasma Hcy and serum vitamin B12 and scores of Y-maze test. The brain tissues of hippocampus were checked immunohistochemically for acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Results: The experimental group developed hyperhomocysteinemia and descreased spatial cognitive ability significantly (P0.05). Conclusion: Homocysteine can impair the spatial cognitive ability in rats and vitamin B12 is effective in lowering Hcy level and protect the spatial cognitive ability of rats.