Quercetin Mitigates Acetamiprid-Induced Memory Impairment and Neuronal Damage in Rats

Background and objectives: Acetamiprid, a widely used neonicotinoid pesticide in agriculture, acts as a stimulant on nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, potentially causing neurotoxicity. Quercetin, a neuroprotective flavonoid found in fruits and vegetables, shows promise in mitigating neurological disorders. This study investigated quercetin's protective potential against acetamiprid-induced memory impairment. Methods: Male rats were divided into four groups: control, acetamiprid (40 mg/kg), quercetin (20 mg/kg), and a combination of acetamiprid and quercetin, administered orally for 28 days. Cognitive performance was assessed using the Morris water maze test; oxidative stress markers in the hippocampus were evaluated, along with histological analysis. Results: Rats exposed to 40 mg/kg acetamiprid exhibited significant memory impairment. Notably, co-treatment with quercetin reversed this effect. Acetamiprid induced oxidative stress, as indicated by increased lipid peroxidation, reduced thiol content, and decreased catalase (CAT) enzyme activity. Simultaneous quercetin and acetamiprid administration effectively mitigated these oxidative stress markers. Histological analysis demonstrated quercetin's ability to prevent acetamiprid-induced hippocampal neuronal damage. Conclusion: Quercetin shows promise in ameliorating acetamiprid-induced memory deficits and neuronal damage, making it a potentially valuable nutraceutical, especially for individuals exposed to pesticides like agricultural workers.