ABSTRACT
Endosulfan provokes systemic toxicity in mammals and induces reactive oxygen species (ROS) and lipid peroxidation (LPO). The brain is susceptible to LPO and several studies implicate ROS and LPO in CNS diseases. Tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) has been accredited with plasminogen-dependent roles in the CNS, as well as plasminogen-independent functions. The aim of this study was to investigate the activities of t-PA and its inhibitor, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) in the adult rat brain, after subchronic endosulfan treatment. Furthermore, the potency of vitamins C and E to attenuate these effects was explored. Endosulfan was administered in Wistar rats either alone or with vitamin C and/or vitamin E. The induced oxidative stress was manifested by induction of LPO as determined by higher malondialdehyde levels. This was accompanied by elevation of t-PA and PAI-1 activities. Vitamins E and C, both well-known for their antioxidant properties, substantially acted in a preventive way and protected the brain from these effects.
