Neuroprotective effects of Jobelyn® against lead-induced neurotoxicity in mice: evidence from behavioral, biochemical, and histomorphological analyses of the cerebellum

Lead (Pb²⁺) is a neurotoxic environmental pollutant. This study evaluated the potential of Jobelyn® (JB) to attenuate Pb²⁺-induced behavioural, biochemical, and histomorphological changes in mice. Twenty male Swiss mice randomly assigned into four groups (n = 5) received daily oral treatments for seven consecutive days: Group I (control, 2 mL/kg distilled water), Group II (Pb²⁺, 100 mg/kg), and Groups III-IV (Pb²⁺ 100 + JB 50 or 100 mg/kg, respectively). On day 7, narrow beam walk, open field test, and Y-maze test (YMT) were used to assess neurocognitive performance; thereafter, the animals were euthanized. Brain homogenates were analyzed for CAT, SOD, GSH, MDA, and TNF-α, while cerebellar tissues were processed for histological evaluation. Pb²⁺ exposure significantly prolonged beam latency, decreased open field locomotor, and reduced spontaneous alternations in the YMT, while concurrently depleting CAT, SOD, and GSH levels, and elevating MDA and TNF-α concentrations. Co-treatment with JB, at 100 mg/kg, significantly improved neurocognitive activities, accompanied by restored antioxidant and a concomitant reduction in MDA and TNF-α levels. Histological analysis showed that Pb²⁺ disrupted neuronal architecture in the cerebellar region, while Jobelyn® preserved cerebellar histoarchitecture. These findings suggest that Jobelyn® has neuroprotective potential against Pb²⁺-induced neurotoxicity, likely through antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms.