Ellagic acid counteracts mercury chloride–induced oxidative stress and thiol oxidation in Drosophila melanogaster

Toxic effects arising due to mercury exposure are major global health issues and they require attention  to combat these effects. Ellagic acid (EA) is a polyphenol containing antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. In this study, we researched the potential ameliorative role of EA in Mercury Chloride (HgCl2)-induced toxicity using Drosophila melanogaster. Flies were treated with graded doses of EA for 7 days via the diet to determine the appropriate concentrations for the study. Afterwards, flies were fed with HgCl2 and EA concurrently for 7 days; thereafter, markers of antioxidant and oxidative stress were determined in the supernatants. Results showed that EA improved the survivability of flies fed with HgCl2, and restored the altered redox status of the flies. Although, no significant improvement was observed in the offspring emergence rate, EA improved climbing activity and reduced acetylcholinesterase activity, disrupted by HgCl2. Furthermore, EA restored to control levels the HgCl2-induced alterations in mRNA expression of Sod1, Hsp70, and Relish (orthologue of human NF-ƙB). These findings indicate ellagic acid's anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory activities in HgCl2-induced toxicity in D. melanogaster.