Neuroprotective effect of methanol extract of Capparis spinosa L. fruits in an in-vitro experimental model of Parkinson’s disease

Aim: Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most widespread neurodegenerative disease. This study, it was aimed to investigate the effect of methanol extract obtained from Capparis spinosa L. fruits, which are known to have important bioactive components, on in-vitro experimental PD model. 
Material and Method: After collecting Capparis spinosa L. fruits from Alanya/Antalya, methanol extract was prepared by drying and grinding. SH-SY5Y cells grown in flasks were transferred to 96 well plates and were incubated until 80% cell density was reached. Different doses of methanol extract were applied to the cells 30 minutes before the PD model was formed. For the PD model, SH-SY5Y cells were exposed to 200 µM 6-OHDA for 24 hours. MTT analysis was performed to assess the viability of SH-SY5Y cells at the end of the 24-hour period. TOS, TAC, and IL-17A levels in the cell medium were determined using the ELISA method. Expression of TNFα and α-synuclein was defined using the immunohistochemical method. 
Results: Cell viability was found to be higher in all treatment groups than in the 6-OHDA group. Moderate levels of TNFα and α-synuclein positivity were observed in the 1500 µg/ml methanol extract group. It was determined that TOS and TAC levels change depending on the dose. It has been determined that the level of IL-17A decreases at low doses. Statistical significance was found between the groups. 
Conclusion: When the findings were examined, it was determined that the methanol extract obtained from Capparis spinosa L. fruits reduced oxidative stress and IL-17A levels at low doses and provided a neuroprotective effect by increasing the antioxidant capacity.