Modulation of nitric oxide production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells of Algerian patients with Alzheimer’s disease using vitamin A and vitamin D; a therapeutic approach

Authors:
  • BMBelkhelfa Mourad
    Belkhelfa Mourad
  • BSBelarbi Soreya
    Belarbi Soreya
  • TMTazir Meriem
    Tazir Meriem
  • TCTouil-Boukoffa Chafia
    Touil-Boukoffa Chafia
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Abstract
Introduction: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) constitutes a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the main cause of dementia in the elderly. A growing body of evidence has associated neuroinflammation and oxidative stress to the onset and the progression of the pathology. Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase (iNOS) and its product (NO) have been involved in AD pathogenesis. Antioxidant and immune-modulatory properties of vitamin A and vitamin D have been shown in several immune disorders. In our current study, we investigate the modulatory effects of both vitamin A and vitamin D on nitric oxide production in Algerian patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Materials and methods: Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells (PBMCs) were isolated from 15 Algerian patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Ex vivo PBMCs cultures were conducted in presence of vitamin A or vitamin D in RPMI 1640 medium for 24 hours. Nitric oxide production in culture supernatants was assessed using modified Griess method. Results: Both vitamin A and vitamin D down-modulated the nitric oxide production by PBMCs of Alzheimer’s disease patients. Interestingly, the vitamin D effect was more important compared to vitamin A one. Discussion/Conclusion: Our reports suggest that modulatory effects of vitamin A and vitamin D on nitric oxide production can be used as a promising therapeutic approach in Alzheimer’s disease.