Neuroprotective effects of catechins in an experimental Parkinson's disease model and SK-N-AS cells: evaluation of cell viability, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic effects

Objectives: The aim of the study was to establish an in vitro Parkinson's disease (PD) model and to investigate the cell viability, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and neuroprotective effects of catechin and EGCG in SK-N-AS and in vitro PD model cells.

Method: SK-N-AS human neuroblastoma cells were used. To develop an in vitro PD model, SK-N-AS cells were exposed to 6-hydroxydopamine. Model control was performed after ELISA analysis of dopamine and α-synuclein levels in the culture medium. Catechin and EGCG were administered to SK-N-AS and in vitro PD model cells. Cell viability was measured using MTT assay and trypan blue staining. Anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities of catechin and EGCG were investigated by indirect immunocytochemistry using anti-TNF-α, anti-IL-1β and anti-caspase-3.

Results: After 24 hours of 6-hydroxydopamine administration at 50 μM, higher αlfa-synuclein and lower dopamine levels were found in PD model than SK-N-AS cells. Cell viability was similar between SK-N-AS and in vitro PD model cells. Treatment with both bioactive components increased cell viability of in vitro PD model cells. Caspase-3 immunoreactivity was significantly reduced in SK-N-AS and PD model cells after EGCG administration, while it was decreased only in PD model cells after catechin administration. IL-1β staining intensity weakened after catechin administration in PD model cells, after EGCG administration in SK-N-AS cells. TNF-α staining intensity was similar in both cells.

Conclusion: Catechin and EGCG increased cell viability in PD model neuron cells. Both components showed anti-apoptotic and anti-inflammatory effects. Catechin may be more effective in preventing damage to neurons PD.