Naringenin and its nanocarriers as potential phytotherapy for autism spectrum disorders

The aim of the study was to investigate pharmacotherapeutic potential of Naringenin and its brain targeted nanoformulations in Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD). ASD like phenotype was induced by infusion of 1 M Propanoic acid into anterior portion of lateral ventricle in rats. Naringenin (25, 50 and 100 mg/kg), uncoated and coated (glutathione & tween 80) naringenin loaded poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles (25 mg/kg) and minocycline (50 mg/kg) were administered orally for 29 days. Neurobehavioural, biochemical, blood-brain barrier permeability, TNF-alpha, MMP-9, HSP-70 and P-glycoprotein tests were performed. Naringenin and its nanoparticles significantly restored behavioural and biochemical deficits in ASD phenotype. Glutathione and tween 80 coated nanoparticles enhanced brain delivery of NGN by inhibition of P-glycoprotein. Naringenin (100 mg/kg) and its nanocarriers (25 mg/kg) demonstrated pharmacological efficacy comparable to minocycline (50 mg/kg). Naringenin and its coated nanocarriers have strong clinical potential as an adjunct neurotherapeutic moiety in attenuating neuropsychopathology associated with ASD.