Protective effects of baicalin on amyloid beta 25-35-induced apoptosis in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells

Baicalin,a type of flavanoid,effectively prevents cellular apoptosis induced by various factors.However,little evidence is available regarding its role on amyloid β(Aβ)-induced neuronal apoptosis.The present study investigated the protective mechanisms of baicalin on Aβ-induced neuronal apoptosis.Flow cytometry and cation dye 5,5',6,6'-tetrachloro-1,1',3,3'-tetraethyl-benzimidazoly lcarbocyanine iodide(JC-1) were employed to measure mitochondrial membrane potential,and nitric oxide secretion and apoptotic-related factors,such as caspase-3,were comprehensively analyzed.Results demonstrated a protective effect of baicalin on Aβ-treated SH-SY5Y cell viability;the rate of apoptosis decreased,nitric oxide generation and expression of caspase-3 were effectively inhibited,and mitochondrial membrane potential was effectively protected.Baicalin inhibited Aβ-induced neuronal apoptosis via multiple targets and multiple pathways,such as the inhibition of free radical damage,reduction of caspase-3 expression,and protection of normal mitochondrial functions.