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Teixeira TM, Boeff DD, de Oliveira Carvalho L, Ritter MR, Konrath EL. The traditional use of native Brazilian plants for male sexual dysfunction: Evidence from ethnomedicinal applications, animal models, and possible mechanisms of action. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2024; 318:116876. [PMID: 37437795 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2023.116876] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Sexual dysfunction is a multifactorial health condition characterized by distressing disturbances in the sexual response and libido, leading to an inability to maintain penile erection and achieve pleasure. Considering the huge Brazilian biodiversity, many plants are traditionally used for aphrodisiac purposes. However, the use of native medicinal plants as sexual boosters in Brazil has been poorly studied. AIM OF THE STUDY This review focuses on the composition, pharmacology, and results of experimental trials of the main native plants used in Brazilian folk medicine with alleged aphrodisiac effects. We aimed to provide a state-of-the-art reference for research on herbs for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction by summarizing and discussing the main studies found. MATERIALS AND METHODS The relevant information was collected by searching keywords (aphrodisiac, sexual tonic, sexual stimulant, sexual vigor stimulant, sexual impotency, erectile dysfunction, etc.) from books containing primary surveys conducted in the original communities and bibliographic surveys prepared by authors linked to the national academic and scientific environment edited in Brazil. Preclinical and clinical studies of the compiled plant species were performed using scientific databases (Scopus, PubMed, SciELO, and SciFinder). RESULTS Seventy-four plant species belonging to 44 families used in Brazil to treat sexual dysfunction were compiled from ethnopharmacological literature. Fourteen plants, including Pfaffia glomerata (Spreng.) Pedersen, Aspidosperma quebracho-blanco Schltdl., Anemopaegma arvense (Vell.) Stellfeld ex de Souza, Mimosa pudica L., Heteropterys tomentosa A. Juss., Trichilia catigua A. Juss., and Turnera diffusa Willd. ex Schult. were pharmacologically studied to confirm these therapeutic properties. Probable modes of action include antioxidant and androgenic activities, inhibition of the PDE5 enzyme, increase in NO levels, and activation of dopaminergic and noradrenergic pathways. In addition, several different species popularly known as "catuaba" were identified, leading to adulterations and controversial effects. CONCLUSION The overall results of the present review of Brazilian folk literature reveal that Brazil has a long tradition of using plants with potential aphrodisiac effects. However, further research is required to identify, characterize, and standardize the active ingredients and herbal preparations used in aphrodisiacs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tárik Matthes Teixeira
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Daiana Daniele Boeff
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil; Pos-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Letícia de Oliveira Carvalho
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil; Pos-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Mara Rejane Ritter
- Department of Botany, Biosciences Institute, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil
| | - Eduardo Luis Konrath
- Laboratory of Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil; Pos-Graduate Program in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande Do Sul (UFRGS), Brazil.
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Gholami Mahmoudian Z, Ghanbari A, Rashidi I, Amiri I, Komaki A. Minocycline effects on memory and learning impairment in the beta-amyloid-induced Alzheimer's disease model in male rats using behavioral, biochemical, and histological methods. Eur J Pharmacol 2023:175784. [PMID: 37179042 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2023.175784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2022] [Revised: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD), as an advanced neurodegenerative disease, is characterized by the everlasting impairment of memory, which is determined by hyperphosphorylation of intracellular Tau protein and accumulation of beta-amyloid (Aβ) in the extracellular space. Minocycline is an antioxidant with neuroprotective effects that can freely cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB). This study investigated the effect of minocycline on the changes in learning and memory functions, activities of blood serum antioxidant enzymes, neuronal loss, and the number of Aβ plaques after AD induced by Aβ in male rats. Healthy adult male Wistar rats (200-220g) were divided randomly into 11 groups (n = 10). The rats received minocycline (50 and 100 mg/kg/day; per os (P.O.)) before, after, and before/after AD induction for 30 days. At the end of the treatment course, behavioral performance was measured by standardized behavioral paradigms. Subsequently, brain samples and blood serum were collected for histological and biochemical analysis. The results indicated that Aβ injection impaired learning and memory performances in the Morris water maze test, reduced exploratory/locomotor activities in the open field test, and enhanced anxiety-like behavior in the elevated plus maze. The behavioral deficits were accompanied by hippocampal oxidative stress (decreased glutathione (GSH) peroxidase enzyme activity and increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in the brain (hippocampus) tissue), increased number of Aβ plaques, and neuronal loss in the hippocampus evidenced by Thioflavin S and H&E staining, respectively. Minocycline improved anxiety-like behavior, recovered Aβ-induced learning and memory deficits, increased GSH and decreased MDA levels, and prevented neuronal loss and the accumulation of Aβ plaques. Our results demonstrated that minocycline has neuroprotective effects and can reduce memory dysfunction, which are due to its antioxidant and anti-apoptotic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ali Ghanbari
- Department of Anatomical Science, Kermanshah University of Medical Science, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Iraj Rashidi
- Department of Anatomical Science, Kermanshah University of Medical Science, Kermanshah, Iran
| | - Iraj Amiri
- Endometrium and Endometriosis Research Center, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran
| | - Alireza Komaki
- Department of Neuroscience, School of Science and Advanced Technologies in Medicine, Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Hamadan, Iran.
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Koul B, Farooq U, Yadav D, Song M. Phytochemicals: A Promising Alternative for the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease. Life (Basel) 2023; 13:life13040999. [PMID: 37109528 PMCID: PMC10144079 DOI: 10.3390/life13040999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2023] [Revised: 04/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/09/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurological condition that worsens with ageing and affects memory and cognitive function. Presently more than 55 million individuals are affected by AD all over the world, and it is a leading cause of death in old age. The main purpose of this paper is to review the phytochemical constituents of different plants that are used for the treatment of AD. A thorough and organized review of the existing literature was conducted, and the data under the different sections were found using a computerized bibliographic search through the use of databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Scopus, CAB Abstracts, MEDLINE, EMBASE, INMEDPLAN, NATTS, and numerous other websites. Around 360 papers were screened, and, out of that, 258 papers were selected on the basis of keywords and relevant information that needed to be included in this review. A total of 55 plants belonging to different families have been reported to possess different bioactive compounds (galantamine, curcumin, silymarin, and many more) that play a significant role in the treatment of AD. These plants possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and anti-amyloid properties and are safe for consumption. This paper focuses on the taxonomic details of the plants, the mode of action of their phytochemicals, their safety, future prospects, limitations, and sustainability criteria for the effective treatment of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhupendra Koul
- Department of Biotechnology, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Usma Farooq
- Department of Botany, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
| | - Dhananjay Yadav
- Department of Life Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea
| | - Minseok Song
- Department of Life Sciences, Yeungnam University, Gyeongsan 38541, Republic of Korea
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Varshney V, Garabadu D. Ang (1-7)/Mas receptor-axis activation promotes amyloid beta-induced altered mitochondrial bioenergetics in discrete brain regions of Alzheimer's disease-like rats. Neuropeptides 2021; 86:102122. [PMID: 33508525 DOI: 10.1016/j.npep.2021.102122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Revised: 01/07/2021] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Renin Angiotensin System plays significant role in the memory acquisition and consolidation apart from its hemodynamic function in the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD). It has been reported that Ang (1-7) ameliorates the cognitive impairment in experimental animals. However, the effect of Ang (1-7)/Mas receptor signaling is yet to be explored in Aβ42-induced memory impairment. Aβ42 was intracerebroventricularly injected into the male rats on day-1 (D-1) of the experimental schedule of 14 days. All the drugs were administered from D-1 to D-14 in the study design. Aβ42 significantly increased the escape latency during Morris water maze (MWM) test on D-10 to13 in the animals. Further, Aβ42 significantly decreased the time spent and percentage of total distance travelled in the target quadrant of the rats on D-14 in the MWM test. Aβ42 also significantly decreased the spontaneous alteration behavior on D-14 during Y-maze test. Moreover, there was a significant increase in the level of Aβ42, decrease in the cholinergic function (in terms of decreased acetylcholine and activity of cholinesterase, and increased activity of acetylcholinesterase), mitochondrial function, integrity and bioenergetics, and apoptosis in all the rat brain regions. Further, Aβ42 significantly decreased the level of expression of heme oxygenase-1 in all the rat brain regions. Ang (1-7) attenuated Aβ42-induced changes in the behavioral, biochemical and molecular observations in all the selected rat brain regions. However, A779, Mas receptor blocker, significantly abolished the beneficial effects of Ang (1-7) in Aβ42-induced cognitive deficit animals. These observations clearly indicate that the Ang (1-7)/Mas receptor activation could be a potential alternative option in the management of AD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vibhav Varshney
- Division of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura 281 406, India
| | - Debapriya Garabadu
- Division of Pharmacology, Institute of Pharmaceutical Research, GLA University, Mathura 281 406, India.
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Liu Z, Qin G, Mana L, Dong Y, Huang S, Wang Y, Wu Y, Shi J, Tian J, Wang P. GAPT regulates cholinergic dysfunction and oxidative stress in the brains of learning and memory impairment mice induced by scopolamine. Brain Behav 2020; 10:e01602. [PMID: 32174034 PMCID: PMC7218254 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Revised: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cholinergic dysfunction and oxidative stress are the crucial mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease (AD). GAPT, also called GEPT (a combination of several active components extracted from the Chinese herbs ginseng, epimedium, polygala and tuber curcumae) or Jinsiwei, is a patented Chinese herbal compound, has been clinically widely used to improve learning and memory impairment, but whether it can play a neuroprotective role by protecting cholinergic neurons and reducing oxidative stress injury remains unclear. METHODS Male ICR mice were intraperitoneally injected with scopolamine (3 mg/kg) to establish a learning and memory disordered model. An LC-MS method was established to study the chemical compounds and in vivo metabolites of GAPT. After scopolamine injection, a step-down passive-avoidance test (SDPA) and a Y maze test were used to estimate learning ability and cognitive function. In addition, ELISA detected the enzymatic activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE), acetylcholine (ACh), choline acetyltransferase (ChAT), malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD). The protein expressions of AChE, ChAT, SOD1, and GPX1 were observed by western blot, and the distribution of ChAT, SOD1, and GPX1 was observed by immunohistochemical staining. RESULTS After one-half or 1 month of intragastric administration, GAPT can ameliorate scopolamine-induced behavioral changes in learning and memory impaired mice. It can also decrease the activity of MDA and protein expression level of AChE, increase the activity of Ach, and increase activity and protein expression level of ChAT, SOD, and GPX in scopolamine-treated mice. After one and a half month of intragastric administration of GAPT, echinacoside, salvianolic acid A, ginsenoside Rb1, ginsenoside Rg2, pachymic acid, and beta asarone could be absorbed into mice blood and pass through BBB. CONCLUSIONS GAPT can improve the learning and memory ability of scopolamine-induced mice, and its mechanism may be related to protecting cholinergic neurons and reducing oxidative stress injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenhong Liu
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China
| | - Gaofeng Qin
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China
| | - Lulu Mana
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China.,Department of Integrative Medicine, School of TCM, Xinjiang Medical University, Urumqi, China
| | - Yunfang Dong
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China.,Zhongkang International Health Physical Examination Center-Qingdao Ruiyuan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Qingdao, China
| | - Shuaiyang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China
| | - Yahan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China
| | - Yiqiong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China.,Jiangsu Province Hospital on Integrated Chinese and Western Medicines, Nanjing, China
| | - Jing Shi
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China.,BUCM Neurology Center, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Jinzhou Tian
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China.,BUCM Neurology Center, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine, Beijing, China
| | - Pengwen Wang
- Key Laboratory of Chinese Internal Medicine of Ministry of Education and Beijing, Dongzhimen Hospital, Beijing University of Chinese Medicine (BUCM), Beijing, China
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Omar SH, Scott CJ, Hamlin AS, Obied HK. The protective role of plant biophenols in mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease. J Nutr Biochem 2017; 47:1-20. [PMID: 28301805 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2017.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2016] [Revised: 01/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Self-assembly of amyloid beta peptide (Aβ) into the neurotoxic oligomers followed by fibrillar aggregates is a defining characteristic of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Several lines of proposed hypotheses have suggested the mechanism of AD pathology, though the exact pathophysiological mechanism is not yet elucidated. The poor understanding of AD and multitude of adverse responses reported from the current synthetic drugs are the leading cause of failure in the drug development to treat or halt the progression of AD and mandate the search for safer and more efficient alternatives. A number of natural compounds have shown the ability to prevent the formation of the toxic oligomers and disrupt the aggregates, thus attracted much attention. Referable to the abundancy and multitude of pharmacological activities of the plant active constituents, biophenols that distinguish them from the other phytochemicals as a natural weapon against the neurodegenerative disorders. This review provides a critical assessment of the current literature on in vitro and in vivo mechanistic activities of biophenols associated with the prevention and treatment of AD. We have contended the need for more comprehensive approaches to evaluate the anti-AD activity of biophenols at various pathologic levels and to assess the current evidences. Consequently, we highlighted the various problems and challenges confronting the AD research, and offer recommendations for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syed H Omar
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia.
| | - Christopher J Scott
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Adam S Hamlin
- School of Science & Technology, University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | - Hassan K Obied
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia; Graham Centre for Agricultural Innovation, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
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Natural products against Alzheimer's disease: Pharmaco-therapeutics and biotechnological interventions. Biotechnol Adv 2016; 35:178-216. [PMID: 28043897 DOI: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2016.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2015] [Revised: 12/19/2016] [Accepted: 12/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a severe, chronic and progressive neurodegenerative disease associated with memory and cognition impairment ultimately leading to death. It is the commonest reason of dementia in elderly populations mostly affecting beyond the age of 65. The pathogenesis is indicated by accumulation of the amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFT) in brain tissues and hyperphosphorylation of tau protein in neurons. The main cause is considered to be the formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) due to oxidative stress. The current treatment provides only symptomatic relief by offering temporary palliative therapy which declines the rate of cognitive impairment associated with AD. Inhibition of the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is considered as one of the major therapeutic strategies offering only symptomatic relief and moderate disease-modifying effect. Other non-cholinergic therapeutic approaches include antioxidant and vitamin therapy, stem cell therapy, hormonal therapy, use of antihypertensive or lipid-lowering medications and selective phosphodiesterase (PDE) inhibitors, inhibition of β-secretase and γ-secretase and Aβ aggregation, inhibition of tau hyperphosphorylation and intracellular NFT, use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), transition metal chelators, insulin resistance drugs, etanercept, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) etc. Medicinal plants have been reported for possible anti-AD activity in a number of preclinical and clinical trials. Ethnobotany, being popular in China and in the Far East and possibly less emphasized in Europe, plays a substantial role in the discovery of anti-AD agents from botanicals. Chinese Material Medica (CMM) involving Chinese medicinal plants has been used traditionally in China in the treatment of AD. Ayurveda has already provided numerous lead compounds in drug discovery and many of these are also undergoing clinical investigations. A number of medicinal plants either in their crude forms or as isolated compounds have exhibited to reduce the pathological features associated with AD. In this present review, an attempt has been made to elucidate the molecular mode of action of various plant extracts, phytochemicals and traditional herbal formulations investigated against AD as reported in various preclinical and clinical tests. Herbal synergism often found in polyherbal formulations were found effective to combat disease heterogeneity as found in complex pathogenesis of AD. Finally a note has been added to describe biotechnological improvement, genetic and genomic resources and mathematical and statistical techniques for empirical model building associated with anti-AD plant secondary metabolites and their source botanicals.
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Deng M, Huang L, Ning B, Wang N, Zhang Q, Zhu C, Fang Y. β-asarone improves learning and memory and reduces Acetyl Cholinesterase and Beta-amyloid 42 levels in APP/PS1 transgenic mice by regulating Beclin-1-dependent autophagy. Brain Res 2016; 1652:188-194. [PMID: 27737765 DOI: 10.1016/j.brainres.2016.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 10/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disorder in the elderly, and studies have suggested that β-asarone has pharmacological effects on beta-amyloid (Aβ) injected in the rat hippocampus. However, the effect of β-asarone on autophagy in the APP/PS1 transgenic mouse is unreported. APP/PS1 transgenic mice were randomly divided into six groups (n=10/group): an untreated group, an Aricept-treated group, a 3-MA-treated group, a rapamycin-treated group, an LY294002-treated group, a β-asarone-treated group. The control group consisted of wild-type C57BL/6 mice. All treatments were administered to the mice for 30 days. Spatial learning and memory were assessed by water maze, passive avoidance, and step-down tests. AChE and Aβ42 levels in the hippocampus were determined by ELISA. p-Akt, p-mTOR, and LC3B expression were detected by flow cytometry. The expression of p-Akt, p-mTOR, Beclin-1, and p62 proteins was assessed by western blot. Changes in autophagy were viewed using a transmission electron microscope. APP and Beclin-1 mRNA levels were measured by Real-Time PCR. The learning and memory of APP/PS1 transgenic mice were improved significantly after β-asarone treatment compared with the untreated group. In addition, β-asarone treatment reduced AChE and Aβ42 levels, increased p-mTOR and p62 expression, decreased p-Akt, Beclin-1, and LC3B expression, decreased the number of autophagosomes and reduced APP mRNA and Beclin-1 mRNA levels compared with the untreated group. That is, β-asarone treatment can improve the learning and memory abilities of APP/PS1 transgenic mouse by inhibiting Beclin-1-dependent autophagy via the PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minzhen Deng
- Guangdong Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Guangdong Provincial Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, and The Second Clinical College, Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510120, PR China; Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Liping Huang
- Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, PR China; Lingnan Normal University, Zhanjiang 524048, PR China
| | - Baile Ning
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Nanbu Wang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Qinxin Zhang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Caixia Zhu
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China
| | - Yongqi Fang
- Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510006, PR China; The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, Guangzhou 510405, PR China.
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Dutra RC, Campos MM, Santos AR, Calixto JB. Medicinal plants in Brazil: Pharmacological studies, drug discovery, challenges and perspectives. Pharmacol Res 2016; 112:4-29. [DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2016.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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Huang SW, Wang W, Zhang MY, Liu QB, Luo SY, Peng Y, Sun B, Wu DL, Song SJ. The effect of ethyl acetate extract from persimmon leaves on Alzheimer's disease and its underlying mechanism. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2016; 23:694-704. [PMID: 27235708 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2016.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2015] [Revised: 03/03/2016] [Accepted: 03/19/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alzheimer's disease (AD) is one of the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorders characterized by neuronal loss in the brain and cognitive impairment. AD is now considered to be the third major cause of death in developed countries, after cardiovascular disease and cancer. Persimmon leaves are used as a popular folk medicine to treat hypertension, angina and internal haemorrhage in Cyangbhina, and it has been reported that ethyl acetate extract of persimmon leaves (EAPL) displays a potential therapeutic effect on neurodegenerative diseases. HYPOTHESIS/PURPOSE This study was designed to investigate the effects of EAPL on AD, to clarify the possible mechanism by which EAPL exerts its beneficial effects and prevents AD, and to determine the major constituents involved. STUDY DESIGN AD model was established by bilateral injection of Aβ1-42 into the hippocampus of rats. The cognitive performance was determined by the Morris water maze and step-down tests. Superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), malondialdehyde (MDA), apoptosis, total and phosphorylated c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK/p-JNK), caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2 were determined. In addition, a sensitive and reliable LC-QTOF-MS method was applied to identify the major compounds present in EAPL. RESULTS EAPL at doses of 200mg/kg, 400mg/kg could markedly reduce the latency, significantly increase the time in the first quadrant and number of the target crossing times in Morris water maze test, markedly increase the latency and reduce the number of errors in the step-down test, significantly inhibit the reductions in SOD and GSH-Px activities, and increase the level of MDA. In addition, EAPL treatment attenuated neuronal apoptosis in the hippocampus, reduced the expression of p-JNK, caspase-3, and the relative ratio of Bax/Bcl-2. Meanwhile, 32 constituents were identified by LC-QTOF-MS/MS assays. CONCLUSION The results indicate that EAPL has a potent protective effect on cognitive deficits induced by Aβ in rats and this effect appears to be associated with the regulation of the antioxidative defense system and the mechanism of mitochondrial-mediated apoptosis. Furthermore, analysis of the LC-MS data suggests that flavonoids and triterpenoids may be responsible for the potential biological effects of EAPL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shun-Wang Huang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University. Shenyang 110016, China; Anhui Institute of Food and Drug Control, Hefei 230022, China
| | - Wei Wang
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University. Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Meng-Yu Zhang
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Qing-Bo Liu
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University. Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Sheng-Yong Luo
- China. Anhui Academy of Medical Sciences, Hefei, 230061, China
| | - Ying Peng
- School of Pharmacy, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University, Shenyang 110016, China
| | - Bei Sun
- Anhui Institute of Food and Drug Control, Hefei 230022, China
| | - De-Ling Wu
- Anhui University of Chinese Medicine, Hefei 230012, China.
| | - Shao-Jiang Song
- Key Laboratory of Structure-Based Drug Design & Discovery, Ministry of Education, School of Traditional Chinese Materia Medica, Shenyang Pharmaceutical University. Shenyang 110016, China.
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Manoharan S, Essa MM, Vinoth A, Kowsalya R, Manimaran A, Selvasundaram R. Alzheimer's Disease and Medicinal Plants: An Overview. ADVANCES IN NEUROBIOLOGY 2016; 12:95-105. [PMID: 27651250 DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-28383-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2023]
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is progressive neurodegenerative disorder and identified as a major health concern globally. Individuals with AD and their care givers are affected in personal, emotional, financial, and social levels. Due to its significant impact and heavy burden on the individual, the patients' families, and society, it is highly needed to search for cost effective, long-time retention therapeutic targets. In recent decades, there are lots of research conducted the possible benefit of natural products and their active components on AD and other neurodegenerative disease, which are discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Manoharan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India.
| | - M Mohamed Essa
- Department of Food Science and Nutrition, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
- Ageing and Dementia Research Group, Sultan Qaboos University, Muscat, Oman
| | - A Vinoth
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Kowsalya
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - A Manimaran
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - R Selvasundaram
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India
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Inhibitory effect of Thymus vulgaris extract on memory impairment induced by scopolamine in rat. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.apjtb.2015.07.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
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Kumar NS, Nisha N. Phytomedicines as potential inhibitors of β amyloid aggregation: significance to Alzheimer's disease. Chin J Nat Med 2015; 12:801-18. [PMID: 25480511 DOI: 10.1016/s1875-5364(14)60122-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2013] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Throughout the history of drug development, plants have been an important source for the discovery of novel therapeutically active compounds for many diseases. The ethnopharmacological approach has provided several leads to identify potential new drugs from plant sources, including those for memory disorders. For the treatment of Alzheimer's disease the drug discovery focus shifted from cholinesterase inhibitors, to other targets primarily based on two key neuropathological hallmarks, namely the hyperphosphorylation of the tau protein resulting in the formation of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), and the increased formation and aggregation of amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) derived from amyloid precursor protein (APP). The present article aims to provide a comprehensive literature survey of plants and their constituents that have been tested for Aβ aggregation, thus possibly relieving several features of Alzheimer's disease (AD).
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Affiliation(s)
- N Satheesh Kumar
- Department of Pharmaceutical Analysis, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research [NIPER-H], Balanagar, Hyderabad-500037, India.
| | - N Nisha
- Department of Biochemistry, Aurigene Discovery Technologies, Hyderabad-500049, India
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15
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Adewusi EA, Steenkamp V. Medicinal plants and their derivatives with amyloid beta inhibitory activity as potential targets for drug discovery. ASIAN PACIFIC JOURNAL OF TROPICAL DISEASE 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/s2222-1808(15)60810-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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16
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Therapeutic Effects of TianDiJingWan on the Aβ 25-35-Induced Alzheimer's Disease Model Rats. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2015; 2015:307350. [PMID: 25815030 PMCID: PMC4357045 DOI: 10.1155/2015/307350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Revised: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 02/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The main purpose of this study was to demonstrate the therapeutic effects and mechanism of TDJW, a modern Chinese medicine prescription developed based on the basic traditional Chinese medicine theory of “tonifying the kidney essence,” on the Aβ25–35-induced AD rats. The AD model was established by the intracerebroventricular administrations of Aβ25–35 into the hippocampus CA1 tissue of SD male rats. 72 rats were randomly divided into six groups: sham operation, AD model, donepezil, high TDJW group, medium TDJW group, and low TDJW group. After oral administration of TDJW, the results of Morris water maze and step-down test showed that the learning and memory abilities of AD rats were significantly improved. And biochemical measurement demonstrated that Ach and Glu in hippocampus tissues of AD rats were increased as well. Moreover, the Aβ deposits and p-Tau aggregations in hippocampus CA1 tissues of AD rats were attenuated as observed in the micrographs of immunohistochemistry study, and the results of ELISA indicated that the expressions of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in hippocampus tissues were significantly decreased. In conclusion, the present study demonstrated that TDJW could be used as a promising therapeutic agent for the clinical applications of AD treatment in patients.
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Palit P, Mukherjee D, Mandal SC. Reconstituted mother tinctures of Gelsemium sempervirens L. improve memory and cognitive impairment in mice scopolamine-induced dementia model. JOURNAL OF ETHNOPHARMACOLOGY 2015; 159:274-284. [PMID: 25459447 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2014.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2014] [Revised: 08/20/2014] [Accepted: 09/07/2014] [Indexed: 06/04/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Gelsemium sempervirens (L.) J.St.-Hil is a herb used for the treatment of various neuroses in both homeopathic and Ayurvedic systems. The present study examines whether Gelsemium reconstituted tincture can protect against scopolamine induced cognitive discrepancies in amnesic mouse model. In order to investigate the protective mechanism of Gelsemium against dementia, in vitro acetyl cholinesterase and β-secretase enzyme inhibition and estimation of glutathione level in mouse brain were carried out. MATERIALS AND METHODS The inhibition study on acetyl cholinesterase and β-secretase enzyme was conducted on brain homogenate supernatant spectrophotometrically using specific substrate. Cognitive enhancement activity was assessed by elevated plus maze and passive avoidance study in scopolamine induced dementia mouse model. Glutathione, an anti-oxidant, was measured spectrophotometrically from scopolamine induced amnesic mice brain supernatant using 5,5'-dithiobis 2-nitrobenzoic acid in the presence and absence of Gelsemium tincture. RESULTS Significant inhibition was found with Gelsemium on AChE and β-secretase enzyme with an IC50 of 9.25 and 16.25 µg/ml, respectively, followed by increasing glutathione levels in comparison to the untreated dementia group. The effect of Gelsemium of scopolamine-induced cognitive deficits was determined by measuring the behavioral parameters and the antioxidant status of the brain after scopolamine (1mg/kg i.p.) injected amnesic mice. Gelsemium significantly demonstrated in vivo anti-dementia activity (60% protection) and increased exploratory behavior. CONCLUSION Our investigations indicated that alkaloid, iridoids and coumarin enriched reconstituted Gelsemium tincture extract displays promising cognitive enhancement in adult mice after short-term oral treatment. Hence, Gelsemium can be a promising anti-dementia agent, mediating the protection against amnesia, attention disorders and learning dysfunctions through dual inhibition of both acetyl cholinesterases (no false positive effect was shown), β-secretase and antioxidant activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Partha Palit
- Dr. B. C. Roy College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences, Division of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, Bidhan Nagar, Durgapur 713206, India.
| | - Dhrubojyoti Mukherjee
- Dr. B. C. Roy College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Sciences, Division of Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry, Bidhan Nagar, Durgapur 713206, India
| | - Subhash C Mandal
- Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy Research Laboratory, Jadavpur University, Kolkata 700032, India.
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18
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Guo X, Jiang W, Li C, Zhu Z, Shen X. Aβ regulation-based multitarget strategy for drug discovery against Alzheimer’s disease. Rev Neurosci 2015; 26:13-30. [DOI: 10.1515/revneuro-2014-0064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2014] [Accepted: 09/25/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
AbstractAlzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressively neurodegenerative disease that eventually leads to the irreversible loss of neurons and intellectual abilities, including cognition and memory. AD has become the most common cause of dementia in aged people, and the ill-defined pathogenesis of AD is seriously impeding the current drug discovery against this disease. To date, there is still a lack of etiologically therapeutic drugs for AD, although some symptomatic treatments have been successfully developed. The β-amyloid (Aβ)-induced neurodegeneration is determined as the main pathogenesis of AD, and by targeting the regulation of Aβ in production inhibition or clearance promotion, many active agents have been designed potentially for AD treatment, but no drug has yet been approved in clinical use. Actually, AD has a complex pathogenic mechanism that involves multiple aberrant signaling genes and pathways, and the idea of ‘single target’ for anti-AD drug research is thus full of challenges. Recently, with a deep understanding of AD pathogeneses and the development of advanced pharmacological techniques, ‘multiple target’-based strategy has been widely applied for the drug discovery against this disease, and many promising results have been achieved. Here, we review the recent multitarget strategies for the drug discovery in the treatment of AD by focusing on the involvement of Aβ regulation.
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Wang J, Wang X, Lv B, Yuan W, Feng Z, Mi W, Zhang H. Effects of Fructus Akebiae on learning and memory impairment in a scopolamine-induced animal model of dementia. Exp Ther Med 2014; 8:671-675. [PMID: 25009638 PMCID: PMC4079397 DOI: 10.3892/etm.2014.1775] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2014] [Accepted: 05/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fructus Akebiae (FAE) is a component of traditional Chinese medicines used for the clinical treatment of amnesia. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effects of FAE extract on scopolamine-induced learning and memory impairment in mice and Sprague-Dawley rats. Treatment with FAE (2.5, 5 and 10 mg/kg) was investigated in scopolamine-treated animals, and its effects on different types of memory were examined using the T-maze, the Morris water maze task, the novel object recognition test, the passive avoidance task and the step-down test. The results revealed that 5 and 10 mg/kg FAE attenuated scopolamine-mediated impairment of cognition, including spatial, episodic, aversive, and short- and long-term memory. Overall, these results suggest that FAE is an effective cognitive enhancer, and thus highlights the value of a multi-target strategy to address the complexity of cognitive dysfunction in Alzheimer’s disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinghua Wang
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital and Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Xuan Wang
- Department of Psychiatry, Beijing Huilongguan Hospital, Beijing 100096, P.R. China
| | - Baosheng Lv
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital and Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Weixiu Yuan
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital and Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Zeguo Feng
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital and Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Weidong Mi
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital and Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Anesthesia and Operation Center, Chinese PLA General Hospital and Medical School of Chinese PLA, Beijing 100853, P.R. China
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20
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Lucena GMRS, Matheus FC, Ferreira VM, Tessele PB, Azevedo MS, Cechinel-Filho V, Prediger RD. Effects of Ethanolic Extract and Naphthoquinones Obtained from the Bulbs ofCipura paludosaon Short-Term and Long-Term Memory: Involvement of Adenosine A1and A2AReceptors. Basic Clin Pharmacol Toxicol 2012; 112:229-35. [DOI: 10.1111/bcpt.12022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2012] [Accepted: 09/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Filipe C. Matheus
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas; Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC); Florianópolis; SC; Brazil
| | - Vania M. Ferreira
- Faculdade de Ciências da Saúde; Universidade de Brasília (UnB); Brasília; DF; Brazil
| | - Priscila B. Tessele
- Núcleo de Investigações Químico-Farmacêuticas (NIQFAR); Curso de Farmácia-CCS, Universidade do Vale do Itajaí (UNIVALI); Itajaí; SC; Brazil
| | - Mariangela S. Azevedo
- Departamento de Química, Laboratórios de Fitoquímica; Produtos Naturais e Meio Ambiente, Universidade Federal de Rondônia (Labfito-UNIR); Porto Velho; RO; Brazil
| | - Valdir Cechinel-Filho
- Núcleo de Investigações Químico-Farmacêuticas (NIQFAR); Curso de Farmácia-CCS, Universidade do Vale do Itajaí (UNIVALI); Itajaí; SC; Brazil
| | - Rui D. Prediger
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Centro de Ciências Biológicas; Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina (UFSC); Florianópolis; SC; Brazil
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21
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Hritcu L, Cioanca O, Hancianu M. Effects of lavender oil inhalation on improving scopolamine-induced spatial memory impairment in laboratory rats. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2012; 19:529-534. [PMID: 22402245 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2012.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2011] [Revised: 12/13/2011] [Accepted: 02/04/2012] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Lavender is reported to be an effective medical plant in treating inflammation, depression, stress and mild anxiety in Europe and the USA. The present study investigated the effects of two different lavender essential oils from Lavandula angustifolia ssp. angustifolia Mill. (Lamiaceae) and Lavandula hybrida Rev. (Lamiaceae) on neurological capacity of male Wistar rats subjected to scopolamine (0.7mg/kg)-induced dementia rat model. Chronic exposures to lavender essential oils (daily, for 7 continuous days) significantly reduced anxiety-like behavior and inhibited depression in elevated plus-maze and forced swimming tests, suggesting anxiolytic and antidepressant activity. Also, spatial memory performance in Y-maze and radial arm-maze tasks was improved, suggesting positive effects on memory formation. Taken together, multiple exposures to lavender essential oils could effectively reverse spatial memory deficits induced by dysfunction of the cholinergic system in the rat brain and might provide an opportunity for management neurological abnormalities in dementia conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucian Hritcu
- Department of Biology, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University, Bd. Carol I, No. 11, Iasi 700506, Romania.
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