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Farihi A, Bouhrim M, Chigr F, Elbouzidi A, Bencheikh N, Zrouri H, Nasr FA, Parvez MK, Alahdab A, Ahami AOT. Exploring Medicinal Herbs' Therapeutic Potential and Molecular Docking Analysis for Compounds as Potential Inhibitors of Human Acetylcholinesterase in Alzheimer's Disease Treatment. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1812. [PMID: 37893530 PMCID: PMC10608285 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59101812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/10/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Alzheimer's disease (AD) stands as a pervasive neurodegenerative ailment of global concern, necessitating a relentless pursuit of remedies. This study aims to furnish a comprehensive exposition, delving into the intricate mechanistic actions of medicinal herbs and phytochemicals. Furthermore, we assess the potential of these compounds in inhibiting human acetylcholinesterase through molecular docking, presenting encouraging avenues for AD therapeutics. Materials and Methods: Our approach entailed a systematic exploration of phytochemicals like curcumin, gedunin, quercetin, resveratrol, nobiletin, fisetin, and berberine, targeting their capability as human acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors, leveraging the PubChem database. Diverse bioinformatics techniques were harnessed to scrutinize molecular docking, ADMET (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity), and adherence to Lipinski's rule of five. Results: Results notably underscored the substantial binding affinities of all ligands with specific amino acid residues within AChE. Remarkably, gedunin exhibited a superior binding affinity (-8.7 kcal/mol) compared to the reference standard. Conclusions: These outcomes accentuate the potential of these seven compounds as viable candidates for oral medication in AD treatment. Notably, both resveratrol and berberine demonstrated the capacity to traverse the blood-brain barrier (BBB), signaling their aptitude for central nervous system targeting. Consequently, these seven molecules are considered orally druggable, potentially surpassing the efficacy of the conventional drug, donepezil, in managing neurodegenerative disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayoub Farihi
- Unit of Clinic and Cognitive Neuroscience, Laboratory of Biology and Health, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14000, Morocco; (A.F.); (A.O.T.A.)
| | - Mohamed Bouhrim
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal 23000, Morocco; (M.B.); (F.C.); (N.B.)
| | - Fatiha Chigr
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal 23000, Morocco; (M.B.); (F.C.); (N.B.)
| | - Amine Elbouzidi
- Laboratory for Agricultural Production Improvement, Biotechnology, and Environment (LAPABE), Faculty of Science, Mohammed First University, Oujda 60000, Morocco
| | - Noureddine Bencheikh
- Bioengineering Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Techniques, Sultan Moulay Slimane University, Beni Mellal 23000, Morocco; (M.B.); (F.C.); (N.B.)
| | - Hassan Zrouri
- Laboratory of Bioresources, Biotechnology, Ethnopharmacology and Health, Faculty of Sciences, Mohammed First University, Boulevard Mohamed VI, B.P. 717, Oujda 60000, Morocco;
| | - Fahd A. Nasr
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (F.A.N.); (M.K.P.)
| | - Mohammad Khalid Parvez
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia; (F.A.N.); (M.K.P.)
| | - Ahmad Alahdab
- Institute of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy, University of Greifswald, Friedrich-Ludwig-Jahn-Street 17, 17489 Greifswald, Germany
| | - Ahmed Omar Touhami Ahami
- Unit of Clinic and Cognitive Neuroscience, Laboratory of Biology and Health, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Tofail University, Kenitra 14000, Morocco; (A.F.); (A.O.T.A.)
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Maina M, Mbaria J, Kamanja I, Moriasi G. Acute oral toxicity, cognitive-enhancing and anti-lipid peroxidation efficacy, and qualitative phytochemistry of the aqueous aerial part extract of Launaea cornuta (Hochst. ex. Oliv. &Hiern) C. Jeffrey. Heliyon 2023; 9:e15487. [PMID: 37123958 PMCID: PMC10131077 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e15487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 04/02/2023] [Accepted: 04/12/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
At present, there is no cure for dementia or its related cognitive impairments. Available treatments only provide symptomatic relief and do not alter the disease's progression and they suffer serious drawbacks limiting their clinical use, hence the need for alternative therapies. Although Launaea cornuta has been used traditionally to treat cognitive deficits, its pharmacological efficacy and safety have not been empirically validated, prompting this study. Acute oral toxicity of the extract was examined in Swiss albino mice using the up-and-down procedure described by the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development guideline number 425. The Morris water maze technique was adopted in assessing cognitive-enhancing effects of the extract in ketamine-induced cognitive-impaired mice. The malondialdehyde concentrations in the whole brain of experimental mice involved in the MWM experiment were measured to determine the extract's anti-lipid peroxidation efficacy. Qualitative phytochemical screening of the extract was performed using standard procedures. Our results showed that the test extract was safe and did not cause any clinical signs of acute oral toxicity in mice at all doses (LD50 > 2000 mg/kg BW). Moreover, the extract significantly improved cognitive function in ketamine-induced cognitive-impaired mice in a dose-dependent manner, as indicated by reduced escape latency, navigation distance, and longer latency in the target quadrant during the probe trial. The extract also significantly reduced malondialdehyde concentrations in mice in a dose-dependent manner, demonstrating its antioxidative stress efficacy. The studied extract contained various phytochemicals associated with cognitive enhancement and antioxidant efficacy, among other pharmacologic effects. Further empirical studies are needed to determine and characterise the extract's specific cognitive-enhancing compounds, specific mechanisms of action, and complete toxicity profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercy Maina
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, PO BOX 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
- Corresponding author. Department of Public Health, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, PO BOX 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - James Mbaria
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, University of Nairobi, PO BOX 29053-00625, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Irene Kamanja
- Department of Public Health, Pharmacology, and Toxicology, Egerton University, PO BOX 13357 - 20100, Nakuru, Kenya
| | - Gervason Moriasi
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Kenyatta University, PO BOX 43844-00100-GPO, Nairobi, Kenya
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Mount Kenya University, PO BOX 342-01000, Thika, Kenya
- Corresponding author. Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Kenyatta University, PO BOX 43844-00100-GPO, Nairobi, Kenya.
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Alpha lipoic acid reverses scopolamine-induced spatial memory loss and pyramidal cell neurodegeneration in the prefrontal cortex of Wistar Rats. IBRO Neurosci Rep 2022; 13:1-8. [PMID: 35664083 PMCID: PMC9157193 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibneur.2022.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Neurodegenerative disorders are linked to oxidative tissue damage characterized by gradual loss of cognitive functions and neuronal cells. Alpha-lipoic acid (AHA) has a strong antioxidant property. Scopolamine is an anti-muscarinic agent used to study the mechanism of memory loss in an animal model. This study is aimed at evaluating the antioxidant role of alpha lipoic acid in reversing scopolamine induced memory loss and neurodegenerative process in the prefrontal cortex of Wistar rats. Twenty adult male Wistar rats used were divided into four groups (n = 5): Group 1 received vehicle (Control), Group 2 had scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p) for 4 days, Group 3 received AHA (200 mg/kg, p.o) for 10 days while Group 4 were pretreated with scopolamine (1 mg/kg, i.p) for 4 days followed by oral administration of 200 mg/kg of AHA for 10 days. The rats were subjected to Y-maze test to assess their spatial memory. The rats were euthanized, the prefrontal area was excised and fixed in 10% formol-calcium and processed for Haematoxylin and Eosin, Cresyl fast violet for Nissl Bodies (Ribosome), and Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein (GFAP) stains. Scopolamine caused a significant decline in spatial working memory, prefrontal neuron cell loss, and increased proliferation of reactive astrocytes (astrogliosis) when compared with the control and AHA treated group. AHA process of reversing scopolamine-induced memory deficit, prefrontal neuron cell loss, and generation of reactive astrocytes (astrogliosis) is mediated by its antioxidant mediated positive modulation of astrocyte-neuronal interaction during neuroinflammation in response to oxidative tissue damage.
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Wang YL, Chio CC, Kuo SC, Yeh CH, Ma JT, Liu WP, Lin MT, Lin KC, Chang CP. Exercise Rehabilitation and/or Astragaloside Attenuate Amyloid-beta Pathology by Reversing BDNF/TrkB Signaling Deficits and Mitochondrial Dysfunction. Mol Neurobiol 2022; 59:3091-3109. [PMID: 35262870 DOI: 10.1007/s12035-022-02728-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
We aim to investigate the mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of exercise rehabilitation (ER) and/or astragaloside (AST) in counteracting amyloid-beta (Aβ) pathology. Aβ oligomers were microinjected into the bilateral ventricles to induce Aβ neuropathology in rats. Neurobehavioral functions were evaluated. Cortical and hippocampal expressions of both BDNF/TrkB and cathepsin D were determined by the western blotting method. The rat primary cultured cortical neurons were incubated with BDNF and/or AST and ANA12 followed by exposure to aggregated Aβ for 24 h. In vivo results showed that ER and/or AST reversed neurobehavioral disorders, downregulation of cortical and hippocampal expression of both BDNF/TrkB and cathepsin D, neural pathology, Aβ accumulation, and altered microglial polarization caused by Aβ. In vitro studies also confirmed that topical application of BDNF and/or AST reversed the Aβ-induced cytotoxicity, apoptosis, mitochondrial distress, and synaptotoxicity and decreased expression of p-TrkB, p-Akt, p-GSK3β, and β-catenin in rat cortical neurons. The beneficial effects of combined ER (or BDNF) and AST therapy in vivo and in vitro were superior to ER (or BDNF) or AST alone. Furthermore, we observed that any gains from ER (or BDNF) and/or AST could be significantly eliminated by ANA-12, a potent BDNF/TrkB antagonist. These results indicate that whereas ER (or BDNF) and/or AST attenuate Aβ pathology by reversing BDNF/TrkB signaling deficits and mitochondrial dysfunction, combining these two potentiates each other's therapeutic effects. In particular, AST can be an alternative therapy to replace ER.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Ling Wang
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Chi-Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.,Center for General Education, Southern Taiwan University of Science and Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chung-Ching Chio
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Chun Kuo
- Department of Ophthalmology, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Optometry, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Chao-Hung Yeh
- Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.,Department of Optometry, Chung Hwa University of Medical Technology, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Jui-Ti Ma
- Department of Medical Research, Chi Mei Medical Center, No. 901, Zhonghua Rd, Yongkang District, Tainan City 710, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Pin Liu
- Department of Medical Research, Chi Mei Medical Center, No. 901, Zhonghua Rd, Yongkang District, Tainan City 710, Taiwan
| | - Mao-Tsun Lin
- Department of Medical Research, Chi Mei Medical Center, No. 901, Zhonghua Rd, Yongkang District, Tainan City 710, Taiwan
| | - Kao-Chang Lin
- Department of Holistic Care, Chi Mei Medical Center, No. 901, Zhonghua Rd, Yongkang District, Tainan City 710, Taiwan. .,Department of Neurology, Chi Mei Medical Center, Tainan, Taiwan.
| | - Ching-Ping Chang
- Department of Medical Research, Chi Mei Medical Center, No. 901, Zhonghua Rd, Yongkang District, Tainan City 710, Taiwan.
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Memudu AE, Adewumi AE. Alpha lipoic acid ameliorates scopolamine induced memory deficit and neurodegeneration in the cerebello-hippocampal cortex. Metab Brain Dis 2021; 36:1729-1745. [PMID: 34021876 DOI: 10.1007/s11011-021-00720-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
Scopolamine- induced memory loss is used to study new drug discovery in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. This study was aimed at evaluating the role of an antioxidant supplement alpha-lipoic acid (AHA), in ameliorating the oxidative damaging effects of scopolamine on cognition, memory, and the neurohistology of the cerebello-hippocampal cortex. Twenty adult male Wistar rats used were categorized into four (4) groups (n = 5): Group A- Control, Group B- 200 mg/kg of AHA, Group C- Scopolamine (memory-impaired model), and Group D- Neurodegenerative repair model (Scopolamine + AHA). The treatment lasted for fourteen (14) days. Y-maze and hang-wire (limb use test) were used as behavioural index to assess memory and motor function while brain tissues were processed for histology (H and E stain), histochemistry using Cresyl Fast violet stain for Nissl bodies, and immunohistochemistry of astrocytes using glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). Results showed that scopolamine led to a decline in brain weight, impaired memory and motor function, induced oxidative tissue damage cumulating in loss of neuronal cells, chromatolysis, the proliferation of reactive astrocytes (neuroinflammation biomarker) in the cerebello-hippocampal cortex; but upon administration of AHA these neuropathological characterizations were inhibited and reversed by AHA demonstrating its antioxidant and neuro- repair potential. In conclusion, AHA is a useful therapeutic agent against scopolamine-induced cognitive and memory deficit because it has the ability to ameliorate oxidative tissue damage by attenuating reactive astrocytes proliferation and neuron chromatolysis thereby improving memory and motor function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adejoke Elizabeth Memudu
- Department of Anatomy Faculty of Basic Medical Science, College of Medical Sciences, Edo University, KM 7 Auchi-Abuja Road Iyamho-Uzairue, P.M.B 04, Auchi, Zip Code 312102, Nigeria.
| | - Abosede Esther Adewumi
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Bingham University, P.M.B 005, Karu, Nassarawa State, Nigeria
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Teymuori M, Yegdaneh A, Rabbani M. Effects of Piper nigrum fruit and Cinnamum zeylanicum bark alcoholic extracts, alone and in combination, on scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice. Res Pharm Sci 2021; 16:474-481. [PMID: 34522195 PMCID: PMC8407161 DOI: 10.4103/1735-5362.323914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 07/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and purpose: Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that is thought to be triggered via disruption of cholinergic neurons and enhanced oxidative stress. Therefore, antioxidant phytochemicals with the ability to fortify cholinergic function should help in preventing the progress of the disease. This study aimed at evaluating the combinational effects of two popular herbs one with anticholinesterase activity namely Piper nigrum and the other with antioxidant capacity, Cinnamomum zeylanicum. Experimental approach: In this study, P. nigrum extract (PN) (50, 100 mg/kg, ip) and C. zeylanicum extract (CZ) (100, 200, 400 mg/kg, ip) and their combinations were administered for 8 days before the injection of scopolamine (1 mg/kg, ip). Mice were then tested for their memory using two behavioral models, namely the object recognition test and the passive avoidance task. Findings/Results: Administration of scopolamine significantly impaired memory performance in both memory paradigms. In the passive avoidance test (PAT) model, PN at doses up to 100 mg/kg and CZ at doses up to 400 mg/kg did not significantly alter the memory impairment induced by scopolamine. The combination of these two plant extracts did not change the PAT parameters. In the object recognition test (ORT) model, however, administration of 100 mg/kg CZ alone and a combination of PN (50 mg/kg) with CZ (400 mg/kg), significantly increased the recognition index (P < 0.05). Conclusion and implications: Two plant extracts when administered alone or in combinations affected the memory performance differently in two memory paradigms. In the PAT model, the extracts did not show any memory improvement, in ORT, however, some improvements were observed after plant extracts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad Teymuori
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Isfahan Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, I.R. Iran
| | - Afsaneh Yegdaneh
- Department of Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, I.R. Iran
| | - Mohammad Rabbani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology and Isfahan Pharmaceutical Sciences Research Center, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, I.R. Iran
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Sajjad Haider M, Ashraf W, Javaid S, Fawad Rasool M, Muhammad Abdur Rahman H, Saleem H, Muhammad Muneeb Anjum S, Siddique F, Morales-Bayuelo A, Kaya S, Alqahtani F, Alasmari F, Imran I. Chemical characterization and evaluation of the neuroprotective potential of Indigofera sessiliflora through in-silico studies and behavioral tests in scopolamine-induced memory compromised rats. Saudi J Biol Sci 2021; 28:4384-4398. [PMID: 34354423 PMCID: PMC8325032 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2021.04.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
In the current study, we investigated the phytochemical and neuropharmacological potential of Indigofera sessiliflora, an indigenous least characterized plant widely distributed in deserted areas of Pakistan. The crude extract of the whole plant Indigofera sessiliflora (IS.CR) was preliminary tested in-vitro for the existence of polyphenol content, antioxidant and anticholinesterase potential followed by detailed chemical characterization through UHPLC-MS. Rats administered with different doses of IS.CR (100-300 mg/kg) for the duration of 4-weeks were behaviorally tested for anxiety and cognition followed by biochemical evaluation of dissected brain. The in-silico studies were employed to predict the blood-brain barrier crossing tendencies of secondary metabolites with the elucidation of the target binding site. The in-vitro assays revealed ample phenols and flavonoids content in IS.CR with adequate anti-oxidant and anticholinesterase potential. The dose-dependent anxiolytic potential of IS.CR was demonstrated in open field (OFT), light/dark (L/D) and elevated plus maze (EPM) tests as animals spent more time in open, illuminated and elevated zones (P < 0.05). In the behavioral tests for learning/memory, the IS.CR reversed the scopolamine-induced cognitive deficits, as animals showed better (P < 0.05) spontaneous alternation and discrimination index in y-maze and novel object recognition (NOR) tests. Similarly, as compared to amnesic rats, the step-through latencies were increased (P < 0.05) and escape latencies were decreased (P < 0.05) in passive avoidance (PAT) and Morris water maze (MWM) tests, respectively. Biochemical analysis of rat brains showed significant reduction in malondialdehyde and acetylcholinesterase levels, alongwith preservation of glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase activity. The docking studies further portrayed a possible interaction of detected phytoconstituents with acetylcholinesterase target. The results of the study show valuable therapeutic potential of phytoconstituents present in IS.CR to correct the neurological disarrays which might be through antioxidant activity or via modulation of GABAergic and cholinergic systems by artocommunol, 1,9-dideoxyforskolin and 6E,9E-octadecadienoic acid.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Sajjad Haider
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Waseem Ashraf
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Sana Javaid
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
- Department of Pharmacy, The Women University, Multan 60000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Fawad Rasool
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | | | - Hammad Saleem
- The Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Farhan Siddique
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, China
| | - Alejandro Morales-Bayuelo
- Facultad de Ingenierías, Centro de Investigación de Procesos del Tecnologico Comfenalco, (CIPTEC), Programa de Ingeniería Industrial, Fundacion Universitaria Tecnologico, Comfenalco -Cartagena, Bolívar, Colombia
| | - Savas Kaya
- Sivas Cumhuriyet University Health Services Vocational School, Department of Pharmacy, 8140 Sivas, Turkey
| | - Faleh Alqahtani
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fawaz Alasmari
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Imran Imran
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
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Zhao J, Li K, Wang Y, Li D, Wang Q, Xie S, Wang J, Zuo Z. Enhanced anti-amnestic effect of donepezil by Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) via further improvement in pro-cholinergic and antioxidative activities. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2021; 269:113711. [PMID: 33352242 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.113711] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2020] [Revised: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE EGb 761 is a standardized dry extract of Ginkgo biloba L. leaves traditionally used by Eastern Asia and has been associated with beneficial effects on neurodegeneration disorders, including Alzheimer's disease. AIM OF THE STUDY Since beneficial interactions between EGb 761 and donepezil have been observed in previous clinical studies, the current study was proposed aiming to further explore related mechanisms from both pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics aspects. MATERIALS AND METHODS Pharmacodynamic interactions were studied in scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment rats received two-weeks treatment of vehicle, EGb 761 and/or donepezil by the Morris water maze test and ex vivo evaluation of biomarkers of cholinergic transmission and oxidative stress in rat brain. In the meantime, pharmacokinetic profiles of donepezil and bilobalide were obtained and compared among all treatment groups. In addition, impact of the bioavailable EGb 761 components on donepezil brain penetration was evaluated with the hCMEC/D3 cell monolayer model. RESULTS Scopolamine-induced rats with co-treatment of EGb 761 and donepezil had significantly improved cognitive function in the Morris water maze test with increased brain levels of superoxide dismutase and decreased brain levels of acetylcholinesterase and malondialdehyde than that with treatment of only EGb 761 or donepezil. Despite such beneficial pharmacodynamics outcomes, the two-week co-treatment of EGb 761 and donepezil did not alter the plasma pharmacokinetics and brain uptake of donepezil or bilobalide, which was further verified in the hCMEC/D3 monolayer model. CONCLUSION Co-administration of EGb 761 and donepezil exerted better anti-amnestic effect via further enhanced pro-cholinergic and antioxidative effects of EGb 761 or donepezil in scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment rat without alteration in their systemic/brain exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.
| | - Kun Li
- Science and Technology Innovation Center, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou, 510405, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yingying Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China.
| | - Dan Li
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.
| | - Qianwen Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong.
| | - Shengsheng Xie
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jianxin Wang
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China; Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China.
| | - Zhong Zuo
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, New Territories, Hong Kong; Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 201203, People's Republic of China; Institute of Integrated Chinese and Western Medicine, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200040, People's Republic of China.
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El-Akhal J, Humulescu I, Ionita R, Postu PA, Ungureanu E, Hancianu M, Bencheikh R, Robu S, Cioanca O, Hritcu L. Anxiolytic and Antidepressant-Like Effects of Conyza canadensis Aqueous Extract in the Scopolamine Rat Model. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10040645. [PMID: 33805374 PMCID: PMC8067281 DOI: 10.3390/plants10040645] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Revised: 03/24/2021] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Conyza canadensis is a plant widely used in traditional medicine in Morocco for the treatment of varied health challenges. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no scientific study justifying the traditional use of Conyza extract as an anxiolytic and antidepressant agent. Moreover, data regarding the polyphenolic fraction is limited. Therefore, the present study was conducted to investigate the chemical composition of an aqueous extract obtained from the aerial parts of Conyza, its antioxidant potential, and the anxiolytic and antidepressant-like effects of the sample (100 and 200 mg/kg body weight (bw)) in the scopolamine (Sco) (0.7 mg/kg bw) rat model. To achieve this purpose, a variety of antioxidant tests (including free radical-scavenging activity and lipoxygenase-inhibitory potential assays) and behavioral procedures, such as the elevated plus-maze and forced swimming tests, were performed. The results demonstrated that the aqueous extract of Conyza canadensis is rich in catechins and flavonoids which possess good antioxidant activity. Additionally, concentrations of 100 and 200 mg/kg of the extract exhibited significant anxiolytic and antidepressant-like profiles following scopolamine treatment. Therefore, we propose that the use of Conyza canadensis could be a new pharmacological target for the amelioration of major depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamila El-Akhal
- Bioactive Molecules Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, B.P. 2202 Fez, Morocco; (J.E.-A.); (R.B.)
| | - Ioana Humulescu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (I.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Radu Ionita
- Department of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I, No. 11, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.I.); (P.A.P.); (E.U.); (L.H.)
| | - Paula Alexandra Postu
- Department of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I, No. 11, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.I.); (P.A.P.); (E.U.); (L.H.)
| | - Eugen Ungureanu
- Department of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I, No. 11, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.I.); (P.A.P.); (E.U.); (L.H.)
| | - Monica Hancianu
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (I.H.); (M.H.)
| | - Rachid Bencheikh
- Bioactive Molecules Laboratory, Faculty of Sciences and Technologies Fez, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, B.P. 2202 Fez, Morocco; (J.E.-A.); (R.B.)
| | - Silvia Robu
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Dunarea de Jos” University, 35 Al. I. Cuza Street, 800010 Galati, Romania;
| | - Oana Cioanca
- Faculty of Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania; (I.H.); (M.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Lucian Hritcu
- Department of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Bd. Carol I, No. 11, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (R.I.); (P.A.P.); (E.U.); (L.H.)
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10
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Boiangiu RS, Mihasan M, Gorgan DL, Stache BA, Hritcu L. Anxiolytic, Promnesic, Anti-Acetylcholinesterase and Antioxidant Effects of Cotinine and 6-Hydroxy-L-Nicotine in Scopolamine-Induced Zebrafish ( Danio rerio) Model of Alzheimer's Disease. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:212. [PMID: 33535660 PMCID: PMC7912787 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10020212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/18/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cotinine (COT) and 6-hydroxy-L-nicotine (6HLN) are two nicotinic derivatives that possess cognitive-improving abilities and antioxidant properties in different rodent models of Alzheimer's disease (AD), eluding the side-effects of nicotine (NIC), the parent molecule. In the current study, we evaluated the impact of COT and 6HLN on memory deterioration, anxiety, and oxidative stress in the scopolamine (SCOP)-induced zebrafish model of AD. For this, COT and 6HLN were acutely administered by immersion to zebrafish that were treated with SCOP before testing. The memory performances were assessed in Y-maze and object discrimination (NOR) tasks, while the anxiety-like behavior was evaluated in the novel tank diving test (NTT). The acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and oxidative stress were measured from brain samples. The RT-qPCR analysis was used to evaluate the npy, egr1, bdnf, and nrf2a gene expression. Our data indicated that both COT and 6HLN attenuated the SCOP-induced anxiety-like behavior and memory impairment and reduced the oxidative stress and AChE activity in the brain of zebrafish. Finally, RT-qPCR analysis indicated that COT and 6HLN increased the npy, egr1, bdnf, and nrf2a gene expression. Therefore, COT and 6HLN could be used as tools for improving AD conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razvan Stefan Boiangiu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (M.M.); (D.L.G.); (B.A.S.)
| | | | | | | | - Lucian Hritcu
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, 700506 Iasi, Romania; (M.M.); (D.L.G.); (B.A.S.)
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11
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Kaur J, Nain P, Kumar S, Bhatia M. Enhancing cognitive performance with rejuvenation of brain antioxidant markers and acetylcholinesterase activity by ethanolic extract of Cucurbita pepo L. seeds in scopolamine-induced model of dementia in rats. JOURNAL OF REPORTS IN PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES 2021. [DOI: 10.4103/jrptps.jrptps_22_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
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12
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Maroyi A. A Review of Medicinal Uses, Phytochemistry and Biological Activities of Markhamia tomentosa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.29169/1927-5951.2020.10.04.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
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13
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Moriasi GA, Ireri AM, Ngugi MP. In Vivo Cognitive-Enhancing, Ex Vivo Malondialdehyde-Lowering Activities and Phytochemical Profiles of Aqueous and Methanolic Stem Bark Extracts of Piliostigma thonningii (Schum.). Int J Alzheimers Dis 2020; 2020:1367075. [PMID: 32308992 PMCID: PMC7128055 DOI: 10.1155/2020/1367075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 03/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cognitive impairment (CI) is among the leading causes of disability in humans. It is estimated that over 35.6 million people are suffering from Alzheimer's disease- (AD-) associated cognitive deficits globally with these statistics projected to rise over 115.4 million by the year 2050. There is no specific etiology for this cognitive impairment; however, various contributing factors including advancing age (>60 years old), oxidative stress, cerebral injuries, infections, neurologic disorders, and cancer have been implicated. Despite various attempts to manage CI, no curative medicines are yet available. The current drugs used to manage symptoms of AD-associated CI including Donepezil and Rivastigmine among others are only palliative rather than therapeutic. Furthermore, these agents have been associated with undesirable side effects. This calls for alternative and complementary approaches aimed at either preventing or reverting AD-related CI in a curative way without causing adverse events. It is estimated that over 80% of the world's population utilize herbal medicines for basic healthcare as it is considered safe, affordable, and easily accessible as opposed to conventional healthcare. Various parts of P. thonningii are used in traditional medicine to manage various conditions including CI. However, empirical and scientific data to validate these uses is lacking. In this study, the Morris water maze (MWM) experiment was adopted to evaluate the cognitive-enhancing effects of the studied plant extracts. The malondialdehyde (MDA) profiles in the brains of experimental mice were determined using the thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) test. Moreover, qualitative phytochemical profiling of the studied plant extracts was performed using standard procedures. The results showed remarkable cognitive-enhancing activities which were reflected in significantly shorter transfer latencies, navigation distances, longer time spent in platform quadrant, and lower MDA levels compared with those recorded for the negative control mice (p < 0.05). Phytochemical screening of the studied plant extracts revealed the presence of antioxidant phytocompounds, which may have played key roles in the extracts' potency. Based on the findings herein, P. thonningii extracts, especially the aqueous ones have a promising potential for the management of AD-associated CI. Further studies aimed at isolating and characterizing specific active compounds for CI from P. thonningii are recommended. Additionally, specific mode(s) of action of active principles should be elucidated. Moreover, toxicity studies should be done on the studied plant extracts to ascertain their safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gervason Apiri Moriasi
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Kenyatta University, P.O BOX 43844-00100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anthony Muriithi Ireri
- Department of Educational Psychology, Kenyatta University, P.O BOX 43844-00100 Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mathew Piero Ngugi
- Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Biotechnology, Kenyatta University, P.O BOX 43844-00100 Nairobi, Kenya
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14
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Zhao J, Ren T, Yang M, Zhang Y, Wang Q, Zuo Z. Reduced systemic exposure and brain uptake of donepezil in rats with scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment. Xenobiotica 2019; 50:389-400. [DOI: 10.1080/00498254.2019.1643514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jiajia Zhao
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Tianjing Ren
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Mengbi Yang
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Yufeng Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Qianwen Wang
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR
| | - Zhong Zuo
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong SAR
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15
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Odubanjo VO, Ibukun EO, Oboh G, Adefegha SA. Aqueous extracts of two tropical ethnobotanicals (Tetrapleura tetraptera and Quassia undulata) improved spatial and non-spatial working memories in scopolamine-induced amnesic rats: Influence of neuronal cholinergic and antioxidant systems. Biomed Pharmacother 2018; 99:198-204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2018.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 01/05/2018] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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16
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Ravi SK, Ramesh BN, Mundugaru R, Vincent B. Multiple pharmacological activities of Caesalpinia crista against aluminium-induced neurodegeneration in rats: Relevance for Alzheimer's disease. ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY AND PHARMACOLOGY 2018; 58:202-211. [PMID: 29408763 DOI: 10.1016/j.etap.2018.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2017] [Revised: 12/07/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and mainly affects cognitive function of the aged populations. Aluminium, a neurotoxic metal, has been suggested as a contributing factor of AD. Caesalpinia crista is a medicinal plant known for its anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. The present study was conducted in order to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of methanolic extracts of C. crista (MECC) on aluminium-induced neurodegeneration in rats. Co-administration with MECC significantly and dose dependently ameliorated the aluminium-dependent cognitive impairment, AChE hyperactivity and oxidative stress in the hippocampus and in the frontal cortex of rat brain. Moreover, MECC reduced the neuronal injury induced by aluminium as shown by the diminution of neuron loss and pyknosis in the CA1 and CA3 regions of the hippocampus. From this study, it is inferred that MECC protect against aluminium-induced behavioral alterations, cognitive function, oxidative stress and neuroinflammation in vivo. Therefore, this plant may serve as a source of natural products having multiple functions and could be utilized as an anti-AD preparation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil K Ravi
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, A Constituent College of University of Agriculture Sciences, Bangalore, India
| | - Balenahalli Narasingappa Ramesh
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, A Constituent College of University of Agriculture Sciences, Bangalore, India.
| | - Ravi Mundugaru
- Pharmacology Laboratory, SDM Centre for Research in Ayurveda and Allied Sciences, Kuthpady, Udupi, Karnataka, India
| | - Bruno Vincent
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand; Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, Paris, France
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17
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Do psychoactive drugs have a therapeutic role in compulsivity? Studies on schedule-induced polydipsia. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2018; 235:419-432. [PMID: 29313138 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-017-4819-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 12/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Clinical studies have shown that some psychoactive recreational drugs have therapeutic applications in anxiety, depression, and schizophrenia. However, to date, there are few studies on the therapeutic potential efficacy of recreational drugs in compulsive neuropsychiatric disorders. OBJECTIVES We explored the therapeutic potential of different psychoactive and psychedelic drugs in a preclinical model of compulsive behavior. METHODS Outbred male Wistar rats were selected as either high (HD) or low (LD) drinkers according to their behavior in schedule-induced polydipsia (SIP). Subsequently, we assessed the effects of acute administration of scopolamine (0.125, 0.25, and 0.5 mg/kg), methamphetamine (0.25, 0.5, 1.25, and 2.5 mg/kg), ketamine (1.25, 2.5, 5, and 10 mg/kg), cannabidiol (1 and 3 mg/kg), WIN21255-2 (0.5, 075, and 1 mg/kg), and AM404 (0.25 and 0.5 mg/kg) on compulsive drinking in SIP. RESULTS Scopolamine reduced dose-dependent compulsive drinking in HD compared with LD rats in SIP. Methamphetamine induced a dose-dependent inverted U-curve effect in both groups, in which lower doses increased and higher doses reduced compulsive drinking in SIP. Ketamine, cannabidiol, WIN21255-2, and AM404 did not have any relevant effects in SIP. CONCLUSIONS These data provide new evidence that low doses of scopolamine and intermediate doses of methamphetamine might therapeutically reduce compulsive behaviors and suggest that there is not a direct participation of the endocannabinoid system in compulsive behavior on SIP. The research in the underlying neurochemical mechanisms of these psychoactive drugs might provide an additional insight on new therapeutic targets in compulsive neuropsychiatric disorders.
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18
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Balmus IM, Ciobica A. Main Plant Extracts' Active Properties Effective on Scopolamine-Induced Memory Loss. Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen 2017; 32:418-428. [PMID: 28643520 PMCID: PMC10852862 DOI: 10.1177/1533317517715906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease leads to progressive cognitive function loss, which may impair both intellectual capacities and psychosocial aspects. Although the current knowledge points to a multifactorial character of Alzheimer's disease, the most issued pathological hypothesis remains the cholinergic theory. The main animal model used in cholinergic theory research is the scopolamine-induced memory loss model. Although, in some cases, a temporary symptomatic relief can be obtained through targeting the cholinergic or glutamatergic neurotransmitter systems, no current treatment is able to stop or slow cognitive impairment. Many potentially successful therapies are often blocked by the blood-brain barrier since it exhibits permeability only for several classes of active molecules. However, the plant extracts' active molecules are extremely diverse and heterogeneous regarding the biochemical structure. In this way, many active compounds constituting the recently tested plant extracts may exhibit the same general effect on acetylcholine pathway, but on different molecular ground, which can be successfully used in Alzheimer's disease adjuvant therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana-Miruna Balmus
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Iasi, Romania
| | - Alin Ciobica
- Department of Research, Faculty of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Iasi, Romania
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