The Efficacy of Sericin in Modulating Antioxidant Enzymes and Dopaminergic D1 and D2 Receptors in a Parkinson’S Disease Animal Model Publisher



Salari Z ; Izadi A ; Monemi M ; Ashabi G ; Kheradmand A
Source: Iranian Journal of Science Published:2026

Abstract

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a central nervous system disorder characterized by progressive neurodegeneration of striatal dopamine nerve cells. The dopaminergic pathway is essential for the body’s movement as it allows dopamine to be transported from one side of the brain to the other. Dopamine function declines in response to PD, which can be defined by the absence of substantia nigra dopaminergic nerve cells. Building upon the preceding research efforts, our objective was to ascertain the levels of Glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), malondialdehyde (MDA) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of rats exposed to rotenone injections, as well as to examine the protein expressions of D1 and D2 receptors in the striatum. GSH, SOD and MDA in the CSF as well as D1 and D2 receptors in the striatum were assessed. Sericin treatment in rotenone-exposed rats led to a notable decrease in MDA, plus an increase in SOD and GSH CSF levels when contrasted with the rotenone-only group. A significant reduction in D1R protein levels in the rotenone group was observed when compared with the control set. Treatment of animals by sericin in the rotenone-exposed group significantly increase D1R levels compared to the rotenone group. Data revealed that D2R protein level decreased significantly in the rotenone plus sericin and sericin groups compared to control group. Further, sericin treatment might have beneficial impacts on dopamine generation and function in PD models. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Shiraz University 2025.