Metforminium Decavanadate (MetfDeca) Treatment Ameliorates Hippocampal Neurodegeneration and Recognition Memory in a Metabolic Syndrome Model.

ABSTRACT

The consumption of foods rich in carbohydrates, saturated fat, and sodium, accompanied by a sedentary routine, are factors that contribute to the progress of metabolic syndrome (MS). In this way, they cause the accumulation of body fat, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and hyperglycemia. Additionally, MS has been shown to cause oxidative stress, inflammation, and death of neurons in the hippocampus. Consequently, spatial and recognition memory is affected. It has recently been proposed that metformin decavanadate (MetfDeca) exerts insulin mimetic effects that enhance metabolism in MS animals; however, what effects it can cause on the hippocampal neurons of rats with MS are unknown. The objective of the work was to evaluate the effect of MetfDeca on hippocampal neurodegeneration and recognition memory in rats with MS. Administration of MetfDeca for 60 days in MS rats improved object recognition memory (NORt). In addition, MetfDeca reduced markers of oxidative stress and hippocampal neuroinflammation. Accompanied by an increase in the density and length of the dendritic spines of the hippocampus of rats with MS. We conclude that MetfDeca represents an important therapeutic agent to treat MS and induce neuronal and cognitive restoration mechanisms.