# Protective Effects of Deer Antler Peptides on D-Galactose-Induced Brain Injury

## TL;DR

This study shows that deer antler peptides can protect against brain damage caused by aging, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in mice.

## Contribution

The study reveals the novel protective mechanism of deer antler peptides in D-galactose-induced brain injury through the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB pathway.

## Key findings

- DAP reduced oxidative stress and inflammatory factors in serum and brain tissue.
- DAP inhibited the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway in both in vivo and in vitro models.
- DAP promoted cell proliferation and reduced ROS levels in senescent BV2 cells.

## Abstract

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the role and potential mechanism of deer antler peptides (DAP) in D-galactose (D-gal)-induced brain injury. Methods: In the in vivo study, C57BL/6J mice were intraperitoneally injected with 400 mg/kg D-gal and gavaged with DAP (50 and 200 mg/kg) for 5 weeks. In vitro studies, D-gal (30 μg/mL) induced senescent BV2 cells were used for further research. Results: DAP increased the expression of BDNF and VEGF in the brain tissue of aging mice, reduced the levels of oxidative stress and inflammatory factors in serum, and decreased the pathological damage of brain tissue. In vitro, DAP promoted the proliferation of D-gal-induced senescent BV2 cells, reduced ROS level, and inhibited the release of IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α. In addition, DAP significantly reduced the protein expressions of TLR4 and MyD88, and inhibited the phosphorylation of NF-κB. Conclusions: DAP can inhibit the TLR4/MyD88/NF-κB signaling pathway, reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, and promote neovascularization. This indicates the therapeutic potential of DAP as a natural bioactive substance in preventing aging-related brain injury.