Apelin-13 protects human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells against amyloid-beta induced neurotoxicity: Involvement of anti oxidant and anti apoptotic properties

Abstract Objectives We investigated the effect of apelin-13 on the cellular model of AD, amyloid-β (Aβ) treated SH-SY5Y cells in rats. Methods The SH-SY5Y cells were pretreated with different doses of apelin-13 (1, 2.5, 5, and 10 μg/mL), half an hour before adding 50% Aβ treatment. After 24 h, cells were evaluated for survival, oxidative stress, mitochondrial calcium release, caspase-3, and cytochrome c levels, compared to control group (beta-actin). Statistical analysis was performed by SPSS 16. Results Apelin-13 at the dose of 2.5 μg/mL protected against IC50 Aβ (p<0.001). Apelin-13 at doses of 1, 2.5, and 5 μg/mL showed protective effects against the reactive oxygen species (ROS) produced by Aβ (p<0.001). Apelin-13 at doses of 2.5 and 5 μg/mL reduced calcium release, caspase-3, and cytochrome c (all p<0.001). Conclusions Apelin-13 prevented apoptosis, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial toxicity and can be a suitable option for treatment of AD. The appropriate treatment strategy for humans has to be investigated in future studies.