Abstract:
Mercury, a highly toxic heavy metal, poses a risk to humans, animals, and plants. Gingko biloba has been used to
treat various disorders including memory-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Ascorbic acid, which is
known for its antioxidant properties, protects cells from free radicals. This study aimed to examine the protective
effects of Gingko biloba extract and ascorbic acid on the hippocampi of adult Wistar rats exposed to mercury.
Forty-two rats weighing between 180 to 200 g were divided into seven groups. Group I served as the control,
while Group II received mercury (5 mg/kg), group III received mercury (5 mg/kg) + ascorbic acid (100 mg/kg),
group IV received mercury (5 mg/kg) + ascorbic acid (500 mg/kg), group V received mercury (5 mg/kg) + Ginkgo
biloba (100 mg/kg), group VI received mercury (5 mg/kg) + Ginkgo biloba (500 mg/kg), group VII received
mercury (5 mg/kg) + ascorbic acid (100 mg/kg) + Ginkgo biloba (100 mg/kg). Treatment was orally for 21
consecutive days. Results indicated that Group II rats experienced altered feeding patterns, decreased body weight
and decreased antioxidant activity levels of glutathione, catalase and superoxide dismutase; increased the brain
weight and malondialdehyde level. In contrast, Groups III to VII, displayed positive outcomes, indicating
protective effects against mercury-induced changes. Mercury had detrimental effects on the hippocampus in adult
Wistar rats. However, the administration of Gingko biloba extract and ascorbic acid showed potential in mitigating
these effects.
