Effect of Curcumin-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles and phenylalanine on Behavioral Performance and Brain Histology in Haloperidol-Treated Male Rats

Alramahi, Noor Al Huda Hussein; Lefelef Al-Gnami, Saadeya Ali

doi:10.29079/qjvms.2026.167164.1153

Effect of Curcumin-Loaded Chitosan Nanoparticles and phenylalanine on Behavioral Performance and Brain Histology in Haloperidol-Treated Male Rats

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

Noor Al Huda Hussein Alramahi ¹

Saadeya Ali Lefelef Al-Gnami ²

¹ Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq

² Department of Forensic science , College of science, University of Al-Qadisiyah, Al-Qadisiyah, Iraq

https://doi.org/10.29079/qjvms.2026.167164.1153

Abstract

Neurotoxicity from agents like heavy metals, pesticides, chemicals, and drugs disrupts neurotransmission and causes oxidative stress, leading to neuronal degeneration. This study tested the neuroprotective effects of curcumin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles and phenylalanine against haloperidol-induced neurotoxicity in male rats. Fifty healthy rats (3–4 months, 250–300 g) from Al-Qadisiyah University were divided into five groups (n=10). Group 1 was controls, receiving distilled water for 30 days. Groups 2–5 received haloperidol (2 mg/kg i.p.) for 14 days. Group 2 was positive control; Groups 3 and 4 received curcumin-chitosan nanoparticles (100 mg/kg) and phenylalanine (2 mg/kg), respectively; Group 5 received both for 30 days after haloperidol. Behavioral tests (Open Field, Y-Maze, Forced Swimming) were conducted. Brain tissues were examined after fixation. Haloperidol reduced locomotion, exploration, and memory, increasing immobility. Curcumin nanoparticles and phenylalanine improved behaviors; their combination nearly normalized activity. Histology showed neuronal contraction, pyknosis, chromatin fragmentation, vascular congestion, and gliosis, indicating severe neurotoxicity. Both treatments reduced these effects; the combination significantly restored neuronal structure and decreased necrosis and gliosis. In conclusion, combined curcumin-loaded chitosan nanoparticles and phenylalanine provided strong neuroprotection against haloperidol toxicity, enhancing activity and neuronal integrity.

Keywords

Curcumin

Phenylalanine

Brain

Chitosan