PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF CURCUMA LONGA IN A ROTENONE-INDUCED RAT MODEL OF PARKINSON'S DISEASE: ELECTROPHYSIOLOGICAL AND BEHAVIORAL EVIDENCE.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by progressive dopaminergic neurodegeneration leading to motor deficits, yet effective neuroprotective therapies remain limited. Curcuma longa (turmeric), a traditionally cultivated spice in Southeast Asia, exhibits potent antioxidant properties that may counteract neurodegenerative processes. This study investigated the neuroprotective potential of orally administered turmeric extract (1100 mg/kg) in a rotenone-induced rat model of PD. Rats received rotenone (2.5 mg/kg) for 21 days to induce PD-like pathology, followed by concurrent turmeric treatment. Neuroprotective outcomes were assessed using in vivo electrophysiology and the Cylinder test to evaluate motor function and forelimb use asymmetry. Turmeric extract administration significantly prevented rotenone-induced degenerative changes and motor impairments, indicating preservation of neuronal integrity and function. These findings suggest that turmeric extract mitigates rotenone-induced neurotoxicity, supporting its potential as a therapeutic agent for PD. Further studies are warranted to elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms and optimize dosing strategies.