Effects of Nigella sativa Extract on Markers of Cerebral Angiogenesis after Global Ischemia of Brain in Rats

Background Reduction of permanent or transient cerebral blood flow may lead to some structural and functional changes of the brain, causing high mortality and morbidity. The aim of this experimental study was to investigate the effects of hydroalcoholic extract of Nigella sativa (NS) on markers of cerebral angiogenesis in rats induced by global brain ischemia. Methods Thirty-two male Wistar rats (250 ± 20 g) were randomly divided into 4 groups: group 1, control group receiving only normal saline; group 2, sham group undergoing surgery and stroke induction without treatment; and groups 3 and 4 treated with 10 and 20 mg/kg NS, respectively, after induction of stroke. Global ischemia was induced by ligation of the right carotid artery for 20 minutes. Results According to the results of this study, brain edema and infarct volume were significantly decreased in the group treated with 20 mg/kg NS compared with the group treated with 10 mg/kg NS ( P