Cite this article:
Shri, Bora, Bhanot, Kumar and Kumar (2016). Neuroprotection: Do Onions have the Answer. Journal of Ravishankar University (Part-B: Science), 29(1), pp.78.
OP-C06
Neuroprotection:
Do Onions have the Answer???
Richa Shri, Kundan Singh Bora,
Abhishek Bhanot, Rahul Kumar and Amit Kumar
Department of Pharmaceutical
Sciences and Drug Rescarch, Punjabi University, Patiala - 147 002, India
Corresponding auther email: rshri587@hotmail.com
[Received
8 January 2016; accepted 12 January 2016]
Abstract:
'Neuroprotection' means preserving the function and structure of neurons and
salvaging neurons threatened by disease or injury. Neuroprotection is
considered an adjunctive treatment option for neurodegenerative disorders.
Oxidative stress is a major culprit in neurological disorders; hence one of the
current of treatment strategies includes use of antioxidants. Plants are a rich
source of antioxidant phytoconstituents. One such plant - Allium cepa L., or
onion, (family Alliaceae) is a potent antioxidant. In our laboratory we have
explored and successfully demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of extracts
of onions in animal models of ischemic stroke, diabetic neuropathy and
neuropathic pain. In pre and post- ischemic stroke model the methanol extract
prepared from the outer scales of onion bulbs (MEOS) prevented memory loss and
motor in-coordination, reduced oxidative stress and cerebral infarct size
(1-2). The MEOS also prevented development of diabetic neuropathy (DN) as well
as showed improvement after the onset of DN (3). MEOS of red variety of onions
have also shown significant improvement in chronic constriction induced model
of neuropathic pain. Red onions with higher amounts of flavonoids as compared
to the white onions produced more significant neuroprotection. Also the extract
of outer scales of red variety demonstrated the most significant
neuroprotective effect (4).The part of onions that is generally discarded - the
outer scales of the bulbs, have great potential for prevention as well as for
treatment of neuronal disorders. Thus, this commonly used vegetable maybe
developed as a valuable neuroprotective agent.
Keywords: Allium cepa,
Antioxidant activity, Neuroprotection