Potential of Ascorbic Acid Supplements to Ameliorate the Deleterious Effects of Hyperuricemia on Albino Wistar Rats' Hippocampus (Structural and Functional Study)

Abstract

Introduction: Diet rich in purines may increase the serum level of uric acid causing hyperuricemia, contributing to learning and memory to impairments. Ascorbic acid has a potent antioxidant potential. The hippocampus is a pivotal component of human brains and other vertebrates that plays crucial roles in the consolidation of information and spatial memory. Our study was mainly designated to examine the potential palliative role of ascorbic acid supplements on harmful effects induced hyperuricemia on the hippocampus of albino Wistar rats.

Methods: Forty rats were subgrouped into the control group, ascorbate-only group, hyperuricemic group, and combined hyperuricemia and ascorbate group.

Results: Ascorbic acid has strongly preserved the histological architecture and maintained the normal hippocampal functions in the hyperuricemic group.

Conclusion: The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of ascorbic acid could protect the hippocampus of albino Wistar rats against the hazardous impact of hyperuricemia.

Keywords: Antioxidant; Ascorbic acid; Hippocampus; Hyperuricemia; Learning; Memory.