Omega-3 rich oils attenuate ADHD-like behaviour induced by dietary monosodium glutamate in rats

Abstract

Background and Objective: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by inattention, hyperactivity and cognitive dysfunction. The present study was designed to examine the possible modulatory effect of Fish, Walnuts or Fenugreek Oils against Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD)-like Behavior induced by Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) in Rats. Materials and Methods: Fifty weaning rats were divided into five groups, (each group contain 10 rats) as follows: Group 1: Normal control rats were fed on a balanced diet. Groups from 2-5 rats were fed on a balanced diet+MSG (0.4 g kg-1 diet), Group 2 served as a positive control group whereas group 3, 4 and 5 treated with Fish, Walnuts and Fenugreek oil, respectively, (200 mg kg-1 b.wt.) by intra-gastric tube. Biochemical and behavioural parameters were tested as well as microscopic examination of brain tissue was done. Results: MSG ingestion caused marked disruption in locomotors activity, memory function and brain tissue structure along with significant abnormalities in some bio-markers and reduction in the gene expression level of Bcl-2 in brain tissue. However, treatment with the tested oils showed remarkable effect by reversing the condition. Conclusion: Dietary supplementation with walnut; fenugreek or fish oils at the tested dose could modulate the condition of ADHD in rats.