Protective effects of magnesium biotinate on propionic acid-induced autistic features in rats

Abstract

Objective This study investigated the protective effects of magnesium biotinate (MgB) on propionic acid (PPA)-induced autistic features in rats. Background Biotin is involved in energy metabolism and various immune and nerve functions. MgB is a novel biotin complex that has enhanced absorption. Compared to D-Biotin, MgB has superior tissue uptake and anti-inflammatory effects. Neurological problems can occur in biotin-deficient individuals. Supplementation with MgB may prevent or reduce neurodevelopmental disorders such as those seen in autism spectrum disorder. Design/Methods Thirty-five male Wistar rats (3 weeks old) were randomized into the following five groups; 1: Control (received saline), 2: PPA alone, 3: PPA + 10 mg human equivalent dose (HED) MgB, 4: PPA + 100 mg HED MgB, 5: PPA + 500 mg HED MgB. Animals were fed a standard diet, with or without MgB, for 35 days and on day 30, rats were administered PPA (500 mg/kg BW/day) by subcutaneous injection for 5 days. Neurobehavioral tests were then performed for two days. Serum and tissue samples were then collected for analysis. Results Social interaction deficits and signs of brain toxicity, including higher brain levels of inflammatory and oxidative stress markers, were observed in PPA alone rats. Brain levels of inflammatory markers were lower in all MgB groups compared to PPA alone (p<0.05). Oxidative stress markers were lower and antioxidant markers were higher in the 100 mg and 500 mg HED MgB groups compared to PPA alone (p<0.05). These effects were most significant in the 500 mg HED MgB group. Sociability and social preference scores were greater in the 100 and 500 mg HED MgB treatment groups compared to PPA alone (p<0.05). The 500 mg HED MgB dose improved social preference score to the extent that it did not differ from normal controls. Conclusions Pre-treatment with MgB significantly reduced brain toxicity and improved autistic features induced by PPA.