An investigation of synergistic effects of cerium oxide nanoparticles and eugenol on the recovery of sensory and motor neuron function in sciatic nerve compression rat model

Improvement of peripheral nerve damage is one of the most important challenges clinically. Using new methods such as nano drugs and natural compounds can be a suitable option due to their effective effects and less side effects. In this study, the synergistic effects of eugenol and cerium oxide nanoparticles was investigated on sciatic nerve recovery in a rat model.

Method and material: 

In this study, twenty-eight male rats weighing 250-300 g were divided into four groups (n=7). The control group and sciatica model injected saline (0.5ml, IP). Two groups model sciatic received intraperitoneally (50 mg/kg eugenol and 20 mg/kg cerium oxide nanoparticles) or (100 mg/kg eugenol and 20 mg/kg cerium oxide nanoparticles). Then sensory and motor behavioral tests performed. The muscle tissue removed. Finally, changes in muscle weight investigated.

Intraperitoneal injection of eugenol plus cerium oxide nanoparticles increased the recovery speed of sensory and motor neurons compared to the sciatica model group. Also, in the group receiving eugenol plus cerium oxide the amount of muscle atrophy was lower. The improvement of nerve tissue was significant in the high-dose group.

The results showed that eugenol/cerium oxide accelerates the regeneration of nerve tissue. Therefore, its neuroprotective potential can be used to treat diseases related to peripheral nerve damage.