Aim: The aim of the study was to investigate the neuroprotective potential of pomegranate juice (PJ) against the damage of brain tissue and antioxidant system induced low level lead (Pb) exposure in rats.

Materials and Methods: A total of 40 rats were divided into four groups containing 10 rats in each. The control group (1) was fed standart rat feed and daily water. A positive control group (2) received a daily dose of 2000 ppm lead (lead acetate) in drinking water; a low treatment group (3) that received a daily dose of 2000 ppm lead together with 30 μL PJ by oral gavage; and a high treatment group (4) that received 2000 ppm lead and 60 μL PJ by oral gavage daily. The experiment was lasted for 5 weeks. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA) and glutathione (GSH) were determined as well as the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT). Morever, histopathological examination was also performed in the brain of the rats.

Results: Pomagranete juice alleviated oxidative stress by decreasing lipid peroxidation ( low MDA level) and increasing the activities of antioxidant enzymes (SOD and CAT) and GSH level in the rats exposed to lead. Severe neurodejenerative changes were observed in only groups received lead. Cellular damage of the brain was partially prevented by PJ.

Conclusion: Regular consumption of pomegranate juice may provide significant benefits against the threat of chronic heavy metal exposure due to increasing intensive industrialization.