Melatonin reduces quinolinic acid-induced lipid peroxidation in rat brain homogenate

The protective effects of melatonin against the neurotoxin, quinolinic acid , were investigated in rat brain homogenate using the thiobarbituric acid a ssay. Quinolinic acid increased lipid peroxidation in a dose dependent mann er. When homogenate was co-treated with melatonin there was a significant d ecrease in lipid peroxidation. The results of the present report show that melatonin may play a protective role in the brain against the neurohormone quinolinic acid, which has been identified as a causative agent in Huntingt on's Disease.