Anti-acrolein treatment improves behavioral outcome and alleviates myelin damage in experimental autoimmune enchephalomyelitis mouse

Oxidative stress is considered a major contributor in the pathology of multiple sclerosis (MS). Acrolein, a highly reactive aldehyde byproduct of lipid peroxidation, is thought to perpetuate oxidative stress. In this study, we aimed to determine the role of acrolein in an animal model of MS, experimental autoimmune enchephalomyelitis (EAE) mice. We have demonstrated a significant elevation of acrolein protein adduct levels in EAE mouse spinal cord. Hydralazine, a known acrolein scavenger, significantly improved behavioral outcomes and lessened myelin damage in spinal cord. We postulate that acrolein is an important pathological factor and likely a novel therapeutic target in MS.

Research Highlights▶Acrolein concentrations are significantly elevated in EAE mouse spinal cord. ▶The acrolein scavenger hydralazine improved behavioral outcome and lessened myelin damage in vivo. ▶Acrolein may be an important pathological factor and novel therapeutic target in MS.