An Investigation on the Ameliorative Effects of Lactobacillus Species from Fermented Maize Gruel On  Cisplatin-Induced Neurological Complications in Albino Rats

‎ABSTRACT ‎The use of probiotics as a therapeutic intervention has gained attention for their potential neuroprotective and antioxidant properties. This study investigates the ameliorative effects of Lactobacillus species derived from fermented maize gruel on cisplatin-induced neurotoxicity in albino rats. A controlled experimental design was adopted, with rats assigned to six groups, including normal control, cisplatin-only, probiotic-only, and combined treatment groups. Neurotoxicity was evaluated through histopathological examination, biochemical markers, and inflammatory cytokine profiling. The results revealed that cisplatin administration led to significant oxidative stress, neuronal degeneration, and increased pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α), alongside elevated malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. However, Lactobacillus supplementation effectively reduced these adverse effects by enhancing antioxidant enzyme activity, lowering inflammatory cytokine levels, and preserving neuronal architecture. Histopathological analysis confirmed reduced gliosis, necrosis, and microglial infiltration in probiotic-treated groups. These findings suggest that Lactobacillus species from fermented maize gruel may serve as a potential adjunct therapy for mitigating chemotherapy-induced neurotoxicity. Further research is needed to elucidate the precise molecular mechanisms underlying these protective effects and optimize probiotic formulations for clinical applications. ‎