Investigation of the changes induced by subacute tangeretin administration in the hippocampus of rats with amnesia model

In this thesis, based on its therapeutic potential in cognitive dysfunctions, the probable effects of tangeretin (TNG), a flavone derivative commonly found in the cortices of Citrus species, on the hippocampi of rats with scopolamine (SCP)-induced amnesia model were investigated. For this purpose, rats were administered TNG per orally at 50 and 100 mg/kg doses for 14 days and the morphological differences and immunoreactivity changes caused by TNG in CA1 and CA3 and dentate gyrus regions of the hippocampus, which have critical roles in learning and memory, were investigated. As a result of the findings; SCP caused a reduction in the number of hippocampal NeuN and GFAP immunopositive cells, as well as weakening in basophilicity of Nissl bodies and deterioration in cell structures of neurons. On the other hand, administration of TNG increased the weakened neuronal proliferation and significantly modified astroglial regression in the associated sub-regions of the hippocampus of amnesic rats. This study, which reveals the beneficial effects of TNG on hippocampal neurogenesis, neuroplasticity and glial plasticity, is important in terms of providing an insight into various diseases and treatments in which cognitive functions regress, especially in Alzheimer's disease.