Neuroprotective effects of telmisartan in a harmaline-induced model of essential tremor: modulation of the renin-angiotensin system and inflammatory pathways

Background Essential tremor (ET) is a widespread neurological disorder with mild cerebellar degeneration that affects motor coordination, causing involuntary, rhythmic tremors during action. Excessive brain renin-angiotensin system activation favors pro-inflammatory milieu that is associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Objective The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of Telmisartan (TELMI), an angiotensin receptor blocker, in a harmaline-induced model of essential tremor. Methods Male rats were assigned to three groups: control, harmaline (30 mg/kg; i. p.) and a treatment group receiving TELMI (3 mg/kg/day; p. o.) administered 5 days before harmaline induction. Results TELMI reduced tremor severity and enhanced performance in the rotarod, wire grip strength, footprint test, open field test, and gait kinematics. Cerebellar molecular analysis revealed that TELMI significantly increased MAS receptor expression and angiotensin 1-7 levels, while concurrently downregulating angiotensin II type 1 and 2 receptors. The levels of ACE1/ACE2 confirmed the favoring of the beneficial RAS arm. This modulation notably inhibited the activation of p38 MAPK and reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines, including TNF-alpha, IL-1-beta, IL-6, and chemokine receptor type 4. Neurotransmitter analysis showed restoration of the excitatory/inhibitory balance between GABA and glutamate levels. Immunohistochemical analysis of Bergmann cells in the cerebellum demonstrated marked reductions in the proliferative marker; Ki67, and markers of glial and progenitor cell activity; S100β and SOX2 expression, respectively, concurrently with, the suppression of the neural stem cell marker; nestin. Conclusion These findings suggest that TELMI protects against cerebellar neurodegeneration in essential tremor by exerting anti-inflammatory, anti-excitotoxic, and receptor-modulatory effects through the Ang 1–7/MAS receptor and p38 MAPK signaling pathways.