Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Marine Alga Turbinaria ornata in Epilepsy: Insights from in vivo Investigations

Background and Objective: Traditional anti-epileptic drugs often come with adverse side effects and limited efficacy, prompting the need for alternative therapies. Marine algae have emerged as a rich source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications. The current study investigated the anticonvulsant properties of Turbinaria ornata using the in vivo technique. Materials and Methods: Epilepsy was induced in animal models using the Pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) method, followed by an analysis of various related parameters. The study measured C-Reactive Protein (CRP) and Interleukin-6 (IL-6) levels in serum and convulsion scoring to assess the severity of epilepsy episodes. Blood glucose levels, malondialdehyde (MDA) and Glutathione (GSH) levels in liver homogenate were evaluated to determine antioxidant properties. The expression levels of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ), Uncoupling Protein 1 (UCP-1) and CCAAT/enhancer-binding proteins (C/EBP) were also examined about neurological diseases, with a focus on epilepsy. Results: The results indicate that treatment with Turbinaria ornata significantly improved the condition of animals subjected to PTZ-induced seizures. The findings suggest its potential to reduce seizure severity, protect neurons, regulate energy metabolism and control gene expression in the brain. Conclusion: Overall, this research underscores the promising potential of Turbinaria ornata as an important agent for treating epilepsy, aiming to elucidate its comprehensive therapeutic capabilities and effectiveness in managing the condition.