5th Edition of International Neurology Conference 2026

Abstract

Background: Oxidative stress plays a key role in myelin damage and is considered one of the major mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). Experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) is a well-established animal model that reproduces the principal pathological features of MS. This study evaluated the neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of Cronassial, a preparation containing mono-, di-, and tri-sialyl gangliosides, in rats with EAE.

Methods: Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring lipid peroxidation, oxidative protein modification, nitric oxide (NO), and sulfhydryl group levels in brain and spinal cord tissues. Humoral immune responses were evaluated by determining the concentrations of IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α in plasma, brain, and spinal cord homogenates, as well as circulating immune complexes (CICs) in serum. Histological examination and immunohistochemical analysis of Bcl-2 expression were performed to assess tissue alterations and neuronal survival.

Results: EAE induced pronounced oxidative stress, characterized by increased lipid peroxidation, oxidative protein modification, and NO production, accompanied by depletion of sulfhydryl groups. Significant elevations in IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, and CIC levels indicated activation of inflammatory and humoral immune responses. Histological analysis demonstrated pathological changes in the white matter of the brain and spinal cord, with increased Bcl-2 immunoreactivity. Treatment with Cronassial markedly reduced oxidative stress, suppressed reactive oxygen species generation, normalized biochemical parameters, decreased inflammatory cytokine and CIC levels, and improved histological findings.

Conclusions: Cronassial demonstrated significant neuroprotective and antioxidant activity in experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by attenuating oxidative stress, modulating inflammatory immune responses, and reducing tissue damage in the central nervous system. These findings suggest that ganglioside-based therapy may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for autoimmune demyelinating disorders such as multiple sclerosis.