Effect of Hesperidin in the Modulation of Anxiety and Motor Impairment Associated With Fluoride Exposure: A Rat Model Study; [تأثير الهسبريدين في تعديل القلق والخلل الحركي المرتبط بالتعرض للفلورايد: دراسة على نموذج الفئران]



Keshavarz L ; Shafiee Sabet M ; Jahanmehr D ; Ghazanfari Moghadam S ; Asadigolshan R
Source: Iranian Journal of Nutrition Sciences and Food Technology Published:2026

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Fluoride is present in various sources, including drinking water, dental products, consumer items, and dietary supplements, which may lead to an increased overall exposure. High fluoride intake can have adverse effects on the nervous system. Hesperidin, a flavonoid found in citrus fruits, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects against various toxicities. The present study aimed to evaluate effect of hesperidin in fluoride-induced anxiety as well as motor impairment in rats. Materials & Methods: Male Wistar rats were divided into four groups. The rats with ad-libitum access to food and water received fluoride (200 ppm), with or without hesperidin (200 mg/kg/d per os) for 4 weeks. At the end of 4 weeks the rats were tested in the elevated plus-maze for anxiety and motor impairment.Results: The results showed that concomitant treatment of hesperidin during fluoride consumption prevented the reduction of the time spent in the open arm and entrance to the open arm (the indexes of anxiety) in the elevated-plus maze (p < 0.01). Besides, an increase was found in motor activity of the rats in the fluoride+hesperidin group compared to the fluoride-treated animals (p < 0.01). Conclusion: Exposure of fluoride in rats can induce anxiety and motor impairment, and hesperidin can act as an antianxiety agent. © 2026, National Nutrition and Food Technology Research Institute. All rights reserved.