Protective Effects of Niclosamide on Stroke in Rats: Reducing Autophagy
and AMPK Pathway in Bilateral Carotid Artery Occlusion Model
Abstract
Objective: Stroke is a leading cause of disability, often resulting from
interrupted blood flow in the brain. Several mechanisms, such as
inflammatory pathways, have been reported to play a role. Niclosamide,
an oral drug for tapeworm infections, has shown potential effects in
cancer, infections, and pain relief. This study examines niclosamide’s
neuroprotective effects in a rat model of ischemic stroke induced by
bilateral common carotid artery (BCA) occlusion. Methods: Acute effects
of niclosamide (5, 10, and 25 mg/kg doses in DMSO) were evaluated in a
BCA occlusion stroke model. Behavioral deficits and recovery were
assessed using grid walking, modified neurological severity score
(mNSS), and open field tests. Hippocampal histology was examined with
H&E and Nissl staining. Key molecular markers, including cAMP, TNF-α,
nitric oxide synthase (NOS), beclin-1, and the AMPK pathway, were
analyzed. Results: Niclosamide at 10 mg/kg significantly reduced
neurological deficits, necrotic degeneration, hemorrhage, and
inflammatory cells (P < 0.01). TNF-α levels and inflammation
decreased (P < 0.05), with reduced AMPK activation and
beclin-1, suggesting decreased autophagy (P < 0.01).
Additionally, niclosamide lowered brain edema by reducing NOS levels (P
< 0.05) and increased cAMP, contributing to neuroprotection.
Interpretation: Findings suggest that 10 mg/kg niclosamide treatment
improves neurological outcomes post-stroke via multiple molecular
pathways, demonstrating its potential for neuroprotection.