Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels in multiple sclerosis patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic progressive autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) that can cause inflammation, demyelination, and axon degeneration. Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) is a single-chain polypeptide mainly synthesized in the liver and brain. IGF-1 causes neuronal and non-neuronal cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation. Therefore, it can be used in treating neuro-demyelinating diseases such as MS. The current systematic review and meta-analysis aims to compare the levels of IGF-1 in MS patients and healthy controls and also investigates IGF binding proteins (IGF-BP) and growth hormone (GH) levels between MS patients and healthy controls.

METHODS

In this study, we systematically searched electronic databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), and Google Scholar, up to December 2022. Studies that measured IGF-1, GH, IGFBP-1, IGFBP-2, or IGFBP-3 in MS patients and healthy controls in either blood or cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) were identified. We calculated Standardized mean differences (SMD) to compare levels of IGF-1, GH, IGFBP-1, IGFBP-2, or IGFBP-3 in MS patients and controls.

RESULTS

Finally, we included 11 eligible studies from 1998 to 2018. The sample size of included studies varied from 20 to 200 resulting in a total sample size of 1067 individuals, 531 MS patients, and 536 healthy controls. The mean age of the patient and control groups were 38.96 and 39.38, respectively. The average EDSS among patients was 4.56. We found that blood levels of IGF-1 (SMD = 0.20, 95% CI = -0.20 to 0.59, I2 = 82.4%, K = 8, n = 692), CSF level of IGF-1 (SMD = 0.25, 95% CI = -0.06 to 0.56, I2 = 0.0%, K = 3 n = 164) and blood levels of GH were not significantly higher in MS patients than controls (SMD = 0.08, 95% CI = -0.33 to 0.49, I2 = 77.0% K = 3, n = 421). Moreover, the blood levels of IGFBP-1 (SMD = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.01 to 1.40, I2 = 77%, K = 4, n = 255) were significantly higher in MS cases than in controls. However, the blood levels of IGFBP-2 (SMD = 0.43, 95% CI = -0.34 to 1.21, I2 = 64.2%, K = 3, n = 78) and blood levels of IGFBP-3 (SMD = 1.04, 95% CI = -0.09 to 2.17, I2 = 95.6%, K = 6, n = 443) were not significantly higher in patients than controls.

CONCLUSION

Our meta-analysis revealed no significant difference in serum levels of IGF-1, GH, IGFBP-2, and IGFBP-3 between the MS group and healthy controls, except for IGFBP1. However, our systematic review showed that the studies were controversial for IGFBP-3 serum levels. Some studies found an increase in serum level of IGFBP-3 in MS patients compared to the healthy group, while others showed a decrease.

Post-exposure self-recovery reverses oxidative stress, ameliorates pathology and neurotransmitters imbalance and rescues spatial memory after time-dependent aluminum exposure in rat brain

Aluminum is a potent neurotoxin, responsible for memory impairment and cognitive dysfunction. The neurotoxic effect of aluminum on cognitive impairment is well documented, however, exposure to aluminum in a time-dependent manner and post-exposure self-recovery still needs to be elaborated. This research aimed to (1) study the time-dependent effect of aluminum exposure by administering a total dose of 5850 mg/kg of Al over two different time periods: 30 and 45 days (130 and 195 mg/kg of AlCl3 respectively), and (2) study 20 days post-exposure self-recovery effect in both aluminum-exposed groups by giving distilled water. Cognitive abilities were investigated through Morris water maze test and hole board test and compared in both exposure and recovery groups. Oxidative stress markers and neurotransmitter levels were measured for both exposure and recovery groups. To understand the mechanism of aluminum exposure and recovery, immunohistochemical analysis of synaptophysin (Syp) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) was performed. Results showed cognitive dysfunction, oxidative stress-induced damage, reduced neurotransmitter levels, decreased immunoreactivity of Syp, and increased GFAP. However, these parameters showed a larger improvement in the recovery group where rats were given aluminum for 30 days period in comparison to recovery group followed by 45 days of aluminum exposure. These results suggest that restoration of cognitive ability is affected by the duration of aluminum exposure. The study findings provide us with insight into the adverse effects of aluminum exposure and can be utilized to guide future preventive and therapeutic strategies against aluminum neurotoxicity.

Naringenin, a Functional Food Component, Improves Motor and Non-Motor Symptoms in Animal Model of Parkinsonism Induced by Rotenone

Parkinson's disease (PD) and other age-related neurodegenerative ailments have a strong link to oxidative stress. Bioflavonoid naringenin has antioxidant properties. The effects of pre- and post-naringenin supplementation on a rotenone-induced PD model were examined in this work. Naringenin (50 mg/kg, p.o.) was administered to rats for two weeks before the administration of rotenone in the pre-treatment phase. In contrast, rotenone (1.5 mg/kg, s.c.) was administered for eight days before naringenin (50 mg/kg, p.o.) was supplemented for two weeks in the post-treatment phase. During behavioral investigation, the motor and non-motor signs of PD were observed. Additionally, estimation of neurochemical and biochemical parameters was also carried out. Compared to controls, rotenone treatment substantially increased oxidative stress, altered neurotransmitters, and caused motor and non-motor impairments. Rotenone-induced motor and non-motor impairments were considerably reduced by naringenin supplementation. The supplementation also increased antioxidant enzyme activities and restored the changes in neurotransmitter levels. The findings of this work strongly imply that daily consumption of flavonoids such as naringenin may have a therapeutic potential to combat PD.

Electric foot-shock induces neurobehavioral aberrations due to imbalance in oxidative status, stress hormone, neurochemical profile, and irregular cortical-beta wave pattern in rats: A validated animal model of anxiety

Neuropsychiatric disorders can be modeled on animals to investigate the neural mechanism underlying these disorders. Models of neuropsychiatric disorders, such as anxiety, basically aim to produce the signs and symptoms of human anxiety disorders in laboratory animals. Electric foot-shock is recommended to induce anxiety-like symptoms in rodents. For this purpose, however, a range of current intensities is available in the literature. The present study aims to modify the existing practices of generating anxiety-like symptoms through electric foot-shock by identifying an optimum current intensity and combing it with behavioral paradigms to produce a rat model of anxiety. Furthermore, the validity of the model was confirmed by checking the fulfillment of three validity criteria necessary for the development of any disease model including face validity, construct validity, and predictive validity. In the current study, after pre-testing, 1.0 mA electric intensity was selected to produce the model of anxiety. The results showed that the induction of 1.0 mA electric foot-shock induces abnormal behavioral effects which were similar to anxiety-like effects as evident by social interaction test, light-dark transition test, and open field test. Moreover, aberrations in the levels of the stress hormone, oxidative stress parameters, hippocampal neurotransmitter levels, and cortical-EEG wave pattern were also observed in the rat model of anxiety which were successfully overcome using diazepam. In conclusion, the outcome of our study suggests that electric foot-shock can be an adequate stressor to produce a validated animal model of anxiety and this model can be confidently used to identify and screen new and/or novel anxiolytics.

Natural remedies for Alzheimer's disease: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the common type of dementia and is currently incurable. Existing FDA-approved AD drugs may not be effective for everyone, they cannot cure the disease nor stop its progression and their effects diminish over time. Therefore, the present review aimed to explore the role of natural alternatives in the treatment of AD. A systematic search was conducted using Ovid MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane and PubMed databases and reference lists up to November 30, 2021. Only randomized control trials were included and appraised using the National Institute of Health framework. Data analysis showed that herbs like Gingko Biloba, Melissa Officinalis, Salvia officinalis, Ginseng and saffron alone or in combination with curcumin, low-fat diet, NuAD-Trail, and soy lecithin showed significant positive effects on AD. Moreover, combination of natural and pharmaceuticals has far better effects than only allopathic treatment. Thus, different herbal remedies in combination with FDA approved drugs are effective and more promising in treatment of AD.

Reversal of oxidative stress, cytokine toxicity and DNA fragmentation by quercetin in dizocilpine-induced animal model of Schizophrenia

Quercetin, a polyphenolic compound found in a variety of plant products possesses various biological activities and beneficial effects on human health. Schizophrenia (SZ) is one of the neuropsychiatric disorders in human beings with rapid mortality and intense morbidity which can be treated with antipsychotics, but these commercial drugs exert adverse effects and have less efficacy to treat the full spectrum of SZ. The present study was conducted to evaluate neuroprotective effects of quercetin in the preventive and therapeutic treatment of SZ. Quercetin was administered as pre- and post-regimens at the dose of 50 mg/kg in dizocilpine-induced SZ rat model for two weeks. Rats were then subjected for the assessment of different behaviors followed by biochemical, neurochemical, and inflammatory marker analyses. The present findings revealed that quercetin significantly reverses the effects of dizocilpine-induced psychosis-like symptoms in all behavioral assessments as well as it also combats oxidative stress. This flavonoid also regulates dopaminergic, serotonergic, and glutamatergic neurotransmission. A profound effect on inflammatory cytokines and decreased %DNA fragmentation was also observed following the administration of quercetin. The findings suggest that quercetin can be considered as a preventive as well as therapeutic strategy to attenuate oxidative stress and cytokine toxicity, regulate neurotransmission, and prevent enhanced DNA fragmentation that can lead to the amelioration of psychosis-like symptoms in SZ.

Ameliorative effects of half-dose saffron and chamomile combination on Psycho-endocrinological changes in a diabetic murine model

INTRODUCTION

Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder with an increasing prevalence worldwide. Reduction in blood insulin level alters brain function by inducing oxidative stress with changes in dopamine and norepinephrine neurotransmission, ultimately leading to neuropsychological symptoms. The efficacy of currently available psychotropic drugs is not satisfactory. Therefore, this study was conducted to explore the beneficial effects of a combination of the natural herbs, saffron and chamomile, in treating diabetes and its resultant neuropsychological effects using a rodent model of diabetes mellitus.

METHOD

The rats were randomly divided in to eight groups (n = 10), healthy control (HC), diabetic control (DC) and six groups of diabetic rats treated with various concentrations and combinations of saffron and chamomile. Diabetic treatment groups individually received methanolic extract and water decoction of chamomile (30 mg/kg) and saffron (10mg/kg) and their combined half doses (saffron 5mg/kg and chamomile 15mg/kg) for two weeks. Open field test (OFT) and forced swim test (FST) were used to measure the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of herbs, respectively. Finally, biochemical, and neurochemical estimations were made.

RESULTS

The present study suggests the therapeutic effects of herbs especially in co-administrated decoction, against diabetes with improved antioxidant profile and enhanced levels of dopamine and norepinephrine. Anxiolytic and antidepressant effects were evident with improvements in the OFT and FST. Examination of the cortex of the diabetic group revealed cellular damage and tangle formation, which indicates advanced stages of dementia.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that the use of a combination of saffron and chamomile improves diabetes control and reduces its related psychiatric effects.

Dose-dependent alteration of neurobehavioral activities by geraniol a component of essential oil: A study in rats

Geraniol, a component of essential oil, is reported to have various pharmacological properties. The current study was conducted to demonstrate the dose-dependent neurobehavioral effects of geraniol. Rats were divided into 5 groups (n=7), comprising of control and four test groups for different doses of geraniol including 10, 30, 50 and 100 mg/kg. Geraniol was given for 15 days through intraperitoneal route. Following the administration, anxiety-, depression-like behaviors and memory function were evaluated. Extent of oxidative stress in rat's brain was also assessed by determining the levels of malondialdehyde and antioxidant enzymes activity. The present study revealed that low doses of geraniol produced more potent anxiolytic, antidepressant, nootropic, and antioxidant effects as compared to the higher doses. The findings highlight the dual characteristic of geraniol, acting as antioxidant at lower doses while at higher doses it produces pro-oxidant effects. The results are discussed in the context of dual characteristic of antioxidant compounds.

Neuroprotective role of a monoterpene (thymol) on diazepam induced withdrawal symptoms in rats

Benzodiazepine administration is known to be related to tolerance and a withdrawal syndrome on sudden cessation. Thymol possesses multiple biological properties especially in the pathogenesis of different brain disorders. However, to the best of our knowledge there is no study that relates the use of thymol to benzodiazepine induced withdrawal symptoms. Therefore the aim of the current study was to investigate the usefulness of thymol in the treatment of benzodiazepine withdrawal syndrome in rats. Animals were divided into four groups, thymol (40mg/kg/ml), diazepam (4 mg/kg), thymol + diazepam and vehicle control group. The treatment was given for 14 days and then suddenly ceased. After 24 h animals were tested in different behavioral paradigms such as physical signs for withdrawal, marble burying test, inverted screen test, elevated plus maze, passive avoidance test and open field activity. The results of the present study revealed that co-administration of thymol significantly reduced the withdrawal symptoms induced by diazepam. Our results further suggest that administration of thymol not only ameliorates rebound anxiety associated with diazepam withdrawal but also improves motor and memory impairment in rats.

Spirulina platensis reduces the schizophrenic-like symptoms in rat model by restoring altered APO-E and RTN-4 protein expression in prefrontal cortex

AIMS

Schizophrenia (SZ) is recognized as a neuropsychiatric disorder in humans with accelerated mortality and profound morbidity followed with impairments in social as well as vocational functioning. Though various antipsychotics are being considered as approved treatment therapy for the psychotic symptoms of SZ but they also exert adverse effects and also lack efficacy in treating full spectrum of the disorder. Spirulina platensis (blue-green algae), a nutritional supplement, constitutes a variety of multi-nutrients and possesses a large number of neuroprotective activities. Therefore, present experimental work was designed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of spirulina in ameliorating the psychosis-like symptoms in dizocilpine-induced rat model of SZ.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The spirulina was tested as preventive and therapeutic regimen at the dose of 180 mg/kg. After pre- and post-treatment with spirulina, rats were subjected to behavioral assessments followed by biochemical and neurochemical estimations. Biomarkers including APO-E, RTN-4, TNF-α, and IL-6 were also estimated using ELISA.

KEY FINDINGS

Present results showed that administration of spirulina not only improved behavioral deficits induced by dizocilpine but it also regulates neurotransmission, oligodendrocyte dysfunction and APO-E over expression. Moreover, it also restores the immune response dysfunction by reducing inflammatory cytokines.

SIGNIFICANCE

Thus, from present findings it may be suggested that spirulina aids in ameliorating the psychosis-like symptoms induced by dizocilpine in animal model possibly via regulation of neurotransmission and other biomarkers that are extensively used to uncover the etiopathology of SZ. Hence, blue-green algae can be used as an effective therapy for preventive or therapeutic measures in SZ.

Tree nuts supplementation instigates the oxidative status and improves brain performance in male rats

Exposure to cadmium has been extensively increased due to its usage in modern daily life. Inside the human body it induces deteriorating effects in every vital organ including brain. Oxidative stress has been widely implicated in neurotoxicity induced by cadmium exposure. Consumption of dietary source of exogenous antioxidants is one of the recommended ways to extenuate heavy metal-induced oxidative stress. The potential of nuts against heavy-metal induced neurotoxicity has not been investigated earlier. This study was, therefore, conducted to find out the antioxidant ability of almond and walnut in the prevention of cadmium-induced oxidative stress. Rats were treated with nuts (400 mg/kg) daily for 28 days whereas, cadmium (50 mg/kg) was given once in a week. Brain function was monitored in terms of memory performance using Morris water maze and elevated plus maze. Moreover, oxidative stress status was also evaluated. Results showed that weekly exposure of cadmium significantly reduced %memory retention, increased lipid per oxidation and inhibited antioxidant enzymes activity. When nuts supplemented rats were monitored for these parameters, it was observed that almond and walnut have a great potential to reduce cadmium-induced neurotoxicity as evident by decreased oxidative stress and improved memory function in cadmium intoxicated rats.

Method for the identification of pharmacological intervention for the disruption of fear memory in PTSD-rat model

A large portion of the human population is exposed to traumatic events once in their lifetime, 10% of which may undergo post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is a mental condition triggered by a traumatic event resulting in severe anxiety disorder which may severely affect the daily routine life of the individual. The patient expresses the aversive memory by recalling any fear event related to the traumatic experience. The disruption of fear memory related to fear event is one of the best approaches to treat PTSD. In this regard, pharmacological interventions provide a possible way to erase or lessen the fear memory of the traumatic event. The screening and identification of drugs is one of the crucial steps to introduce new potent drugs in preclinical setup. Pavlovian fear conditioning is the well known experimental protocol to study fear memory. In this article, we are presenting a detailed method of Pavlovian fear conditioning which we have optimized in our lab for the identification of drugs having the potential to disrupt fear memory in the PTSD-rat model. In this protocol, various stages of memory formation including consolidation, reconsolidation, and extinction have been targeted to study the effect of a particular drug.•The protocol provides step by step procedure to study the effects of known or putative drugs in an animal model of PTSD.•The method also explains the separate protocols to target specific stages of memory so that one can identify the effects of drugs on a particular phase of remote or recent memory formation.

Amelioration of motor and non-motor deficits and increased striatal APoE levels highlight the beneficial role of pistachio supplementation in rotenone-induced rat model of PD

Pistachio contains polyphenolic compounds including flavonoids and anthocyanins which have antioxidant and antiinflammatory activity. Present study was aimed to evaluate the protective effects of pistachio on neurobehavioral and neurochemical changes in rats with Parkinson's disease (PD). Animal model of PD was induced by the injection of rotenone (1.5 mg/kg/day, s.c.) for 8 days. Pistachio (800 mg/kg/day, p.o.) was given for two weeks in both pre- and post-treatment. At the end of treatment brain was dissected out and striatum was isolated for biochemical and neurochemical analysis. Memory was assessed by Morris water maze (MWM) and novel object recognition (NOR) test while open field test (OFT), Kondziela inverted screen test (KIST), pole test (PT), beam walking test (BWT), inclined plane test (IPT) and footprint (FP) test were used to observe motor behavior. Rotenone administration significantly (p < 0.01) impaired the memory but pistachio in both pre- and post-treatment groups significantly (p < 0.01) improved memory performance. Rotenone-induced motor deficits were significantly attenuated in both pre- and post-pistachio treatment. Increased oxidative stress and decreased DA and 5-HT levels induced by rotenone were also significantly attenuated by pistachio supplementation. Furthermore, raised apolipoprotein E (APoE) levels in rotenone injected rats were also normalized following treatment with pistachio. Present findings show that pistachio possesses neuroprotective effects and improves memory and motor deficits via increasing DA levels and improving oxidative status in brain.

Supplementation of Taurine Insulates Against Oxidative Stress, Confers Neuroprotection and Attenuates Memory Impairment in Noise Stress Exposed Male Wistar Rats

Noise has always been an important environmental factor that induces health problems in the general population. Due to ever increasing noise pollution, humans are facing multiple auditory and non-auditory problems including neuropsychiatric disorders. In modern day life it is impossible to avoid noise due to the rapid industrialization of society. Continuous exposure to noise stress creates a disturbance in brain function which may lead to memory disorder. Therefore, it is necessary to find preventive measures to reduce the deleterious effects of noise exposure. Supplementation of taurine, a semi essential amino acid, is reported to alleviate psychiatric disorders. In this study noise-exposed (100 db; 3 h daily for 15 days) rats were supplemented with taurine at a dose of 100 mg/kg for 15 days. Spatial and recognition memory was assessed using the Morris water maze and novel object recognition task, respectively. Results of this study showed a reversal of noise-induced memory impairment in rats. The derangements of catecholaminergic and serotonergic levels in the hippocampus and altered brain antioxidant enzyme activity due to noise exposure were also restored by taurine administration. This study highlights the importance of taurine supplementation to mitigate noise-induced impaired memory via normalizing the neurochemical functions and reducing oxidative stress in rat brain.

Free L-glutamate-induced modulation in oxidative and neurochemical profile contributes to enhancement in locomotor and memory performance in male rats

Glutamate (Glu), the key excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, is considered essential for brain functioning and has a vital role in learning and memory formation. Earlier it was considered as a harmful agent but later found to be useful for many body functions. However, studies regarding the effects of free l-Glu administration on CNS function are limited. Therefore, current experiment is aimed to monitor the neurobiological effects of free l-Glu in male rats. l-Glu was orally administered to rats for 5-weeks and changes in behavioral performance were monitored. Thereafter, brain and hippocampus were collected for oxidative and neurochemical analysis. Results showed that chronic supplementation of free l-Glu enhanced locomotor performance and cognitive function of animals which may be attributed to the improved antioxidant status and cholinergic, monoaminergic and glutamatergic neurotransmission in brain and hippocampus. Current results showed that chronic supplementation of l-Glu affects the animal behaviour and brain functioning via improving the neurochemical and redox system of brain. Free l-Glu could be a useful therapeutic agent to combat neurological disturbances however this requires further targeted studies.

Spirulina platensis (Blue-green algae): A miracle from sea combats the oxidative stress and improves behavioral deficits in an animal model of Schizophrenia

Spirulina platensis (blue-green algae) is a nutritional supplement. It constitutes of high content of protein, antioxidants, various phytopigments and possesses neuroprotective activities. Schizophrenia (SZ) is recognized as a neuropsychiatric disorder in humans with a reduced lifespan followed with impairments in social as well as vocational functioning. Major psychotic symptoms of SZ cluster into three categories: positive, negative and cognitive dysfunctions. Dizocilpine recognized as one of the best drugs to mimic full spectrum of SZ can develop an animal model of the disorder. Various antipsychotics are considered as approved treatment therapy for the psychotic symptoms of SZ but they also exert adverse effects. Thus, there is an excessive need for novel treatment(s) with negligible adverse effects. Present study was designed to evaluate the neuroprotective effects of spirulina in ameliorating the psychosis- like symptoms in dizocilpine-induced rat model of SZ. Spirulina was tested at the dose of 180 mg/kg. Results showed that administration of spirulina improved behavioral deficits and combated the oxidative damage evident by a significant reduction in lipid peroxidation and increase in antioxidant level. Thus, from present findings it may be suggested that spirulina can be used as a therapy for preventive or therapeutic measures.

Naringenin protects AlCl3/D-galactose induced neurotoxicity in rat model of AD via attenuation of acetylcholinesterase levels and inhibition of oxidative stress

Currently prescribed medications for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease (AD) that are based on acetylcholinesterase inhibition only offer symptomatic relief but do not provide protection against neurodegeneration. There appear to be an intense need for the development of therapeutic strategies that not only improve brain functions but also prevent neurodegeneration. The oxidative stress is one of the main causative factors of AD. Various antioxidants are being investigated to prevent neurodegeneration in AD. The objective of this study was to investigate the neuroprotective effects of naringenin (NAR) against AlCl3+D-gal induced AD-like symptoms in an animal model. Rats were orally pre-treated with NAR (50 mg/kg) for two weeks and then exposed to AlCl3+D-gal (150 mg/kg + 300 mg/kg) intraperitoneally for one week to develop AD-like symptoms. The standard drug, donepezil (DPZ) was used as a stimulator of cholinergic activity. Our results showed that NAR pre-treatment significantly protected AD-like behavioral disturbances in rats. In DPZ group, rats showed improved cognitive and cholinergic functions but the neuropsychiatric functions were not completely improved and showed marked histopathological alterations. However, NAR not only prevented AlCl3+D-gal induced AD-like symptoms but also significantly prevented neuropsychiatric dysfunctions in rats. Results of present study suggest that NAR may play a role in enhancing neuroprotective and cognition functions and it can potentially be considered as a neuroprotective compound for therapeutic management of AD in the future.

Alleviation of diazepam-induced conditioned place preference and its withdrawal-associated neurobehavioral deficits following pre-exposure to enriched environment in rats

Diazepam is one of the widely prescribed sedative drugs for the treatment of anxiety and sleep disorders. However, its continuous use can induce addiction, tolerance, and withdrawal symptoms and, therefore, the pharmacological use of diazepam is restricted. Exposure to enriched environment can reduce the addiction to stimulants including amphetamine, cocaine, and nicotine. However, the protective effect of enriched environment against preference of sedative drugs is not yet investigated. This study, therefore, determined the effects of enriched environment to prevent diazepam-preference using conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm. Adult rats were reared in social (n = 12) or physically (n = 12) enriched environment for four weeks. Each group was then sub-divided into two groups and were administered either saline (Control; n = 6) or diazepam (1 mg/kg; n = 6) on alternate days for thirteen days. During the administration of diazepam, the CPP was conducted to monitor drug preference on 5th, 9th and 13th day of experiment. It was observed that the diazepam administration significantly (p < .01) induced preference in rats. Neurobehavioral deficits including hypolocomotor activity, depression-like behavior, impaired learning and memory functions were also observed after 24 h of drug abstinence. Exposure to enriched environment significantly reduced diazepam-preference and other neurobehavioral deficits. This study provides preliminary evidence to highlight the importance of enriched environment in the attenuation of diazepam-preference.

Curcumin lessens unpredictable chronic mild stress-induced depression and memory deficits by modulating oxidative stress and cholinergic activity

Unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) model is the most established method to study neurobiological mechanisms of depression. This work was intended to explore the efficacy of curcumin to revert the UCMS-induced oxidative burden and associated depression as well as potential of curcumin as an acetyl cholinesterase (AchE) inhibitor. Animals were initially grouped into control and curcumin (200mg/kg, p.o) and further subdivided into unstressed and stressed groups. Depression and anxiety were evaluated by forced swim test (FST) and light/dark transition (LDT) while memory function was assessed by passive avoidance test (PAT). Effect of curcumin on oxidative stress following UCMS was determined by measuring peroxidation of lipid (LPO) and antioxidant enzyme activities. AchE activity was also determined. Findings showed that curcumin supplementation significantly attenuated the UCMS-induced depression and anxiety like symptoms, decreased the load of UCMS propagated oxidative stress by improving antioxidant enzymes activities. Curcumin also improved the memory function and exhibited inhibitory effect on AchE activity. In conclusion it can be suggested that supplementation of curcumin in daily life can help in combating the stress-induced depression and ever increasing load of oxidative stress. Study also highlights the anti-acetylcholinesterase potential of curcumin which may be responsible for improved memory function following UCMS.

Impacts of improved extension services on awareness, knowledge, adoption rates and perceived benefits of smallholder dairy farmers in Pakistan

The provision of effective extension services to smallholder farmers across both developing and developed countries remains a challenge worldwide. The objective of the study is to demonstrate the impacts of improved extension services on awareness, knowledge, adoption rates and perceived benefits of smallholder dairy farmers in Pakistan. An extension program was developed and implemented in five districts of Punjab (Okara, Pakpattan, Jhelum, Kasur and Bhakkar) and two districts of Sindh (Thatta and Badin) provinces. The extension program involved the provision of research-based information on a monthly basis to smallholder farming families (FF = 523) over a 4-year period. The extension program was primarily a knowledge transfer-based system, but also relied on farmer engagement and feedback to help drive research and topics for discussion. No financial incentives were provided to the farmers for their participation. A ‘whole-family approach’ was used in the extension program, where comprehensive interdisciplinary training on the whole dairy-farming system was provided to the males, females and children of the farming household. To encourage greater participation and support different learning strategies, several information transfer media were used (including group discussions, one-on-one visits, practical demonstrations, problem-based learning techniques and videos). To assess the impact of this extension program on farms involved, data on farmer awareness, knowledge, adoption and their perceived benefits were collected using a mixed-method approach from three different groups of farmers; registered (IMPreg = 179) farmers directly involved in the extension program, non-registered (IMPnon-reg = 116) farmers indirectly benefiting from the program and traditional (IMPtrad = 104) farmers not associated with any project activities. Overall awareness, knowledge and adoption rates relating to seven different recommendations in the extension program were significantly (P &lt; 0.05) higher in the registered farmers than in the non-registered and traditional farmers. The perceived benefits of the adopted recommendations varied between the different extension messages, but farmers described that they observed increases in milk production, improvements in animal health (body condition and morbidity) and labour efficiency (time savings). These results suggest that adopting improved extension services using a whole-family approach we can significantly achieve higher adoption rates, leading to on-farm benefits to smallholder dairy farmers and their families.

Prevention of cadmium-induced neurotoxicity in rats by essential nutrients present in nuts

Cadmium, a heavy metal with no physiological function in the human body, is considered a bio-hazard. It is also considered to be a potent neurotoxin. The primary sources of cadmium exposure are diet and cigarette smoke. It has been postulated that nutritional deficiencies can increase the risk of cadmium toxicity. Nuts provide essential nutrients which are necessary for the maintenance of brain health in humans. The present study was designed to investigate the possible protective effects of almond and walnut supplementation on cadmium-induced neurotoxicity. Cadmium was orally administered at a dose of 50 mg/kg weekly with or without the supplementation of almond and walnut in rats. Intensities of depression‑ and anxiety-related behaviors were assessed by the forced swim test and light/dark transition test, respectively. Memory function was also evaluated by the elevated plus maze, Morris water maze and novel object recognition task. After four weeks of treatment it was observed that cadmium administration significantly induced depressogenic and anxiogenic behaviors. Memory function was also impaired by cadmium administration. Cadmium-treated rats exhibited reduced noradrenalin, dopamine and serotonin levels in the brain, whereas the levels of their respective metabolites were significantly increased. The dietary supplementation of almond and walnut at a dose of 400 mg/kg/day significantly attenuated cadmium-induced depression, anxiety and memory impairments. Neurochemical aberrations also normalized following supplementation with these nuts in rats. The present study demonstrates that long-term supplementation with almond and walnut provides essential nutrients which may overcome nutritional deficiencies and thereby reduce heavy-metal intoxication.

A comparative study showing greater effects of curcumin compared to donepezil on memory function in rats

Curcumin possesses wide spectrum of biological actions, on that account the current study was aimed to investigate the beneficial effectiveness of curcumin on memory and oxidative stress if any, over synthetic drug donepezil approved for the treatment of memory disorders. Eighteen Albino wistar (male) rats were divided into 3 groups namely vehicle control which received neutral oil orally and 0.9% saline intraperitoneally, curcumin which received curcumin orally dissolved in neutral oil at the dose of 100mg/ml/kg for seven days, donepezil which received donepezil intraperitoneally at the dose of 1mg/ml/kg for seven days. To assess memory and cognition Elevated Plus Maze and Morris Water Maze tests were performed. Rats were sacrificed after behavioral analysis and their brains were removed for biochemical assays including lipid peroxidation and antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase. Acetylcholine esterase activity and acetylcholine levels were also determined. Our results showed that both curcumin and donepezil improved memory and inhibited acetylcholinesterase, however curcumin inhibited AchE with more potency than donepezil when compared to vehicle control rats. Moreover curcumin exhibited greater antioxidant potential to decrease the load of oxidative stress in brain cells than donepezil as compared to vehicle control rats. In conclusion present study proposed that increased antioxidant potential of curcumin may be responsible for its increased acetylcholine levels and associated enhanced memory performance.

Neurobehavioral and biochemical effects of magnesium chloride (MgCl2), magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) and magnesium-L-threonate (MgT) supplementation in rats: A dose dependent comparative study

Magnesium (Mg) is an essential biomineral that acts as an intracellular cofactor for more than 300 enzymes. It is an important modulator of the N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor which is involved in memory function and depression. The purpose of this study was to compare the dose dependent effect of oral supplementation of Magnesium chloride (MgCl₂), Magnesium sulphate (MgSO₄) and Magnesium-L-threonate (MgT) on memory and depression-related behaviors in rats. Rats were orally administered with different doses (50 mg/kg, 100 mg/kg and 150 mg/kg) of each Mg salt. Following 28 days of oral supplementation, animals were subjected to behavioral tests. After completion of behavioral test, rats were decapitated. Brain and plasma samples were used for neurochemical and biochemical analysis. Assessment of behaviors in elevated plus maze (EPM) test and forced swim test (FST) showed that MgT more significantly improved memory of rats and decreased depression-like symptoms in healthy rats as compared to controls. Biochemical analysis indicated significant increase in plasma Mg levels dose dependently following MgT administration. This increase might be related to observe enhanced cholinergic functions and decline in oxidative stress in rats in the present study. This comparative study highlights that MgT (100mg/kg) is the most appropriate Mg salt and dose for oral treatment that strengthens cholinergic system and improves brain related functions through attenuation of oxidative burden in adult healthy rats.

Administration of 5-HT-1B agonist ameliorates pseudodementia induced by depression in rats

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is the leading cause of memory impairment in general population. The serotonin hypothesis provides a target model for the treatment of depression and depression-associated memory loss. 5-HT-1B receptor is suggested as a potential candidate in the pathophysiology of depressive illness. Dysfunction of 5-HT-1B receptors has been observed previously in depressive patients. Zolmitriptan, 5-HT-1B agonist is clinically recommended for the treatment of migraine. However, in present study this drug was tested as a potential treatment for depression and associated memory loss by altering the serotonergic function at receptor level. Rats (n=24) were equally divided into unstressed and stressed groups. Depression was induced by 19 days of restraint stress for 4 h which was followed by forced swim test and pattern separation test to assess depressive symptoms and memory impairment, respectively. The initial sign of depression-associated memory loss involves impaired pattern separation which is regarded as pseudodementia. In this study stressed rats showed depression- and pseudodementia-like symptoms. After the induction of depression, rats were treated with zolmitriptan at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg which resulted in a significant attenuation of depression and depression-associated memory impairment. Results are discussed with reference to the modulation of function of 5-HT-1B receptor following the administration of exogenous agonist.

Quantitative and qualitative assessment of additives present in broiler chicken feed and meat and their implications for human health

OBJECTIVE

To determine the various constituents of commercial, broiler chicken feed and the presence of these constituents in their meat.

METHODS

The experimental study was conducted at the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research laboratory, Karachi. Samples of commercial broiler chicken feed and meat were collected in 2015 from a large poultry farm that supplies chicken meat to various suburban areas of the city. Another set of organic chickens were bred in an animal house. The samples of feed, meat and droppings were then analysed for the estimation of basic constituents and additives in the laboratory. Data was analysed using SPSS 20.0.

RESULTS

The constituents were measured in 26 samples of chicken meat from each group. Calories (p<0.01), amount of protein (p<0.01), total fats (p<0.05), cholesterol (p<0.01), saturated fats (p<0.01), monounsaturated (p<0.05) and polyunsaturated fats (p<0.01) were significantly increased in commercial broiler chicken compared to that of organic chicken meat. The commercial chicken feed was found to contain crude carbohydrate, crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, vitamins, amino acids, premixes of vitamins and toxicities of roxarsone, melamine and pesticides. Additive constituents were also present in the commercial chicken meat. These components were absent in organic chicken meat and droppings which suggests that they were absent in their feeding contents.

CONCLUSIONS

Organic chickens were found to be safer for consumption than commercial chickens.

Physical enrichment enhances memory function by regulating stress hormone and brain acetylcholinesterase activity in rats exposed to restraint stress

To study the effects of stress on mental health activity is of great importance in neuropsychological studies as it may affect the lifelong performance related to brain and overall health and wellbeing of an individual. It is observed very often that exposure to stress during early life can alter the brain function which may reflect as cognitive disability. Impairment of memory is associated with increased oxidative stress which is due to enhanced production of free radicals that may lead to lipid peroxidation and disintegration of cell structure and functions. Exposure to enriched environment has shown to enhance spatial learning and memory, although the underlying mechanism covering the regulation of antioxidant capacity is limited. Here we investigated short and long term memory using Morris water maze before and after giving restraint stress procedure in rats exposed to social and physically enriched environment. Levels of malondialdehyde (MDA), activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) in brain tissue were estimated. Plasma corticosterone was also determined after decapitation. Results demonstrated that rats pre-exposed to physical along with social enrichment showed improved short and long term memory as compared to control group. However, restraint stress exerted differential effects in socially and physically enriched groups. Reduced lipid peroxidation and decreased activity of SOD, GPx and AChE were observed in physically enriched rats subjected to stress as compared to stressed rats kept in social environment. Levels of corticosterone were also found to be significantly reduced in rats kept in physically enriched environment. This study shows the beneficial effects of environmental enrichment on learning and spatial memory by reducing oxidative stress via reducing lipid peroxidation and regulation of antioxidant enzymes in rats.

Anticholinergic drug atropine diminishes newly formed fear memory in male rats

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a condition which is triggered shortly after experiencing traumatic events. PTSD is complicated by the fact that people with PTSD often develop additional disorders such as phobias, addiction, depression, panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Beta-adrenergic and cholinergic system both are involved in memory formation as well as in emotional response associated with memory. It is reported that the administration of beta-adrenergic and cholinergic antagonist results in the impairment in memory formation. Here, we examined the potential of beta-adrenergic antagonist propranolol and muscarinic cholinergic antagonist atropine for impairing the recently formed fear memory associated with PTSD. Reconsolidation is the memory process during which labile memory converts into permanent memory. In this study it is hypothesized that if recently formed fear memory is disturbed during reconsolidation phase by pharmacological intervention then it could be possible to impair well-consolidated fear memory. Atropine and propranolol were injected in separate set of rats (n=6) just after the reactivation of fear memory. Short term memory and long term memory were monitored after 2 h and 24 h of reactivation respectively. Results of current study demonstrated that only atropine showed significant impairment of reconsolidation of newly formed fear memory whereas propranolol did not show fear memory disrupting effects. The results emphasize the significance of pharmacological intervention to impair reconsolidation of newly formed fear memory.

Dietary Supplementation of Almond Prevents Oxidative Stress by Advocating Antioxidants and Attenuates Impaired Aversive Memory in Male Rats

Scopolamine, an anti-muscarinic agent, has been shown to induce amnesia and oxidative stress similar to that observed in the older age. The present study was designed to determine the relationship between the oxidative status and memory improvement in scopolamine injected rats pre-administered with almonds. Rats (n = 8) in the almond group were administered orally with 400 mg/kg almond suspension for 28 days daily before the intraperitoneal injection of scopolamine (0.5 mg/kg). Passive avoidance task (PAT) was used to assess memory function at the end of treatment. The present study revealed that scopolamine injection significantly impaired the memory function in rats pre-treated with saline which was accompanied by increased oxidative stress as evident by increased brain malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes as compared to healthy controls. Pre-treatment with almond significantly ameliorated scopolamine-induced oxidative stress and memory dysfunction. These findings suggest that dietary supplementation with almonds may have a beneficial effect in reducing the risk of oxidative stress-induced memory loss and delaying or preventing the onset of age-related memory impairment.

Walnut supplementation reverses the scopolamine-induced memory impairment by restoration of cholinergic function via mitigating oxidative stress in rats: a potential therapeutic intervention for age related neurodegenerative disorders

The brain is highly susceptible to the damaging effects of oxidative reactive species. The free radicals which are produced as a consequence of aerobic respiration can cause cumulative oxygen damage which may lead to age-related neurodegeneration. Scopolamine, the anti-muscarinic agent, induces amnesia and oxidative stress similar to that observed in the older age. Studies suggest that antioxidants derived from plant products may provide protection against oxidative stress. Therefore, the present study was designed to investigate the attenuation of scopolamine-induced memory impairment and oxidative stress by walnut supplementation in rats. Rats in test group were administrated with walnut suspension (400 mg/kg/day) for four weeks. Both control and walnut-treated rats were then divided into saline and scopolamine-treated groups. Rats in the scopolamine group were injected with scopolamine (0.5 mg/kg dissolved in saline) five minutes before the start of each memory test. Memory was assessed by elevated plus maze (EPM), Morris water maze (MWM), and novel object recognition task (NOR) followed by estimation of regional acetylcholine levels and acetylcholinesterase activity. In the next phase, brain oxidative status was determined by assaying lipid peroxidation, and measuring superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase (CAT) activities. Results showed that scopolamine-treatment impaired memory function, caused cholinergic dysfunction, and induced oxidative stress in rats compared to that saline-treated controls. These impairments were significantly restored by pre-administration of walnut. This study demonstrates that antioxidant properties of walnut may provide augmented effects on cholinergic function by reducing oxidative stress and thus improving memory performance.

Enriched environment palliates nicotine-induced addiction and associated neurobehavioral deficits in rats

This study was designed to investigate the role of enriched environment in preventing and/or reducing the neurobehavioral deficits produced after nicotine administration in albino Wistar rats. Equal numbers of rat in two groups were either placed in social environment (control group) or social along with physically enriched environment for four weeks before the administration of nicotine. Exposure to different environmental conditions was followed by the intraperitoneal injection of nicotine at the dose of 0.6 mg/kg for seven consecutive days during which addictive behavior was monitored using conditioned placed preference paradigm. Behavioral responses to locomotor activity, anxiety and retention of short term memory were investigated in control and nicotine injected groups exposed to different environments. Results of this study showed that the rats pre-exposed to physical along with social enrichment exhibited a decrease in drug seeking behavior, hyper locomotion, anxiogenic effects along with improvement of working memory as compared to control and nicotine injected groups that were kept in social environment alone. This behavioral study suggests that the exposure to physical enrichment along with socialization in young age can later reduce the chances of compulsive dependence on nicotine and related neurobehavioral deficits.

Dizocilpine induced psychosis-like behavior in rats: A possible animal model with full spectrum of schizophrenia

Schizophrenia (SZ) is categorized as neuropsychiatric disorder with reduced lifespan and significant impairments in social and vocational functioning. One of the best proposed pharmacological animal models is dizocilpine, as it can mimic the full spectrum of schizophrenic disorder including positive and negative symptoms along with cognitive deficits. Dizocilpine is N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor antagonist known to induce hyper-locomotion and stereotyped behavior in rodents. Present study was designed to develop an animal model of SZ via intraperitoneal administration of dizocilpine in rats (100-150g) at a dose of 0.3 mg/kg for eight days. For the evaluation of positive symptoms, hyperlocomotor behavior was monitored. Negative symptoms were assessed by sucrose preference test (SPT) and social interaction test (SIT). Moreover, Cognitive deficits were evaluated by novel object recognition test (NORT). After behavioral assessments animals were decapitated for further evaluation of biochemical and neurochemical estimations. Present findings revealed that dizocilpine injected rats exhibited significant hyperlocomotor behavior, depressive symptoms and cognitive deficits. Results are further strengthened with a marked increase in lipid per oxidation (LPO) in brain and a decline in reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. Biogenic amine levels (Dopamine, DA; 5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) were also significantly increased and decreased respectively. Thus, present findings suggest that dizocilpine can be used as one of the best drug to develop psychosis-like symptoms in rats and to develop an animal model following a short-term study.

Enhanced physical endurance and improved memory performance following taurine administration in rats

Energy drinks enhance physical endurance and cognitive ability. The ingredients present in these drinks are considered as ergogenic and have memory boosting effects. In the present study effects of taurine administration for one week was monitored on physical exercise and memory performance in rats. Animals were divided into two groups namely control and test. Taurine was injected intraperitoneally to the test group at the dose of 100mg/kg. After one week of treatment rats were subjected to physical exercise and memory task. Results of this study revealed that rats injected with taurine for one week exhibited improved muscular strength as well as enhanced memory performance in Morris water maze and elevated plus maze. Biomarker of lipid peroxidation was significantly reduced in brain and plasma of test animals. Taurine administration also resulted in higher levels of corticosterone in this study. The results highlight the significance of taurine ingestion in energy demanding and challenging situations in athletes and young subjects.

Impact of oral supplementation of Glutamate and GABA on memory performance and neurochemical profile in hippocampus of rats

Glutamate (GLU) and gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) are essential amino acids (AA) for brain function serving as excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitter respectively. Their tablets are available in market for improving gut function and muscle performance. Despite of having a major role during memory formation and processing, effects of these tablets on brain functioning like learning and memory have not been investigated. Therefore, present study is aimed to investigate the effects of orally supplemented GLU and GABA on learning and memory performance and further to monitor related effects of these orally supplemented GLU and GABA on brain levels of these AA. Three groups of rats were supplemented orally with drinking water (control group) or suspension of tablets of GABA and Glutamate, respectively for four weeks. Cognitive performance was determined using behavioral tests (Novel object recognition test, Morris water maze, Passive avoidance test) measuring recognition, spatial reference and aversive memory. Levels of GLU, GABA and acetylcholine (ACh) were estimated in rat hippocampus. Results showed that chronic oral administration of GLU and GABA tablets has a significant impact on brain function and can alter GLU and GABA content in rat hippocampus. Compared to GABA, GLU supplementation specifically enhances memory performance via increasing ACh. Thus, GLU can be suggested as a useful supplement for improving learning and memory performance and neurochemical status of brain and in future could be effective in the treatment of neurological disorders affecting learning and memory performance.

Assessment of gait dynamics in rotenone-induced rat model of Parkinson's disease by footprint method

Rotenone (organic pesticide and inhibitor of mitochondrial complex I) is used to generate an experimental model of Parkinson's disease (PD). In the present study, we investigated rotenone-induced locomotor deficits, gait dynamics and muscular weakness in rats. The study also determined dopamine (DA) and dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC) levels following rotenone administration. In the study, adult male rats were administered subcutaneously (s.c.) with rotenone (1.5 mg/kg/day) for 8 days. Motor activities were monitored by the Kondziela's inverted screen test, beam walking test and footprint test. Animals were decapitated after behavioral analysis and brains were dissected out for neurochemical estimation. Results showed that the levels of DA and DOPAC were significantly decreased, which further supported by significant impaired motor coordination in rotenone treated rats. In conclusion, the behavioral and neurochemical findings of our study further strengthen the previous report and emphasizes on short term administration of rotenone producing PD-like symptoms in rats.

Assessment of atherosclerotic risk among patients with epilepsy on valproic acid, lamotrigine, and carbamazepine treatment

OBJECTIVE

To compare the long-term effects of carbamazepine (CBZ), valproic acid (VPA), and lamotrigine (LTG) as monotherapy on the markers of vascular risk.

METHODS

The present cross-sectional study was carried out at the Department of Neurology, Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC), Karachi, Pakistan, from 2012 to 2013. We selected 120 adult patients with epilepsy and 40 control subjects. The patients with epilepsy were divided into 3 groups according to the use of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) (CBZ, n = 40; VPA, n = 40; and LTG, n = 40). All participants` total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), very low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-c), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c), ratio of TC/HDL-c, ratio of LDL-c/HDL-c, body mass index (BMI), and blood pressure was determined.

RESULTS

In patients with epilepsy, CBZ and VPA treatment caused a noteworthy increase in the concentrations of TG, TC, and LDL-c compared with LTG treatment and the control group (p<0.001). The HDL-c significantly decreased in CBZ, VPA, and LTG-treated patients as compared with controls (p<0.001). The ratio of LDL-c/HDL-c and TC/HDL-c significantly increased in VPA- and CBZ-treated groups compared with the LTG-treated, and control group, while the ratio was also considerably elevated in patients treated with CBZ as compared with the patients treated with VPA. The weight and BMI of the patients treated with AEDs were higher (p<0.01).

CONCLUSION

Patients with epilepsy on CBZ or VPA have changed vascular risk markers that may lead to atherosclerosis, while LTG-treated patients have less alteration in lipid profile.

Attenuation of stress induced memory deficits by nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in rats: Role of antioxidant enzymes

BACKGROUND

Repeated stress paradigms have been shown to cause devastating alterations on memory functions. Stress is linked with inflammation. Psychological and certain physical stressors could lead to neuroinflammation. Inflammatory process may occur by release of mediators and stimulate the production of prostaglandins through cyclooxygenase (COX). Treatment with COX inhibitors, which restrain prostaglandin production, has enhanced memory in a number of neuroinflammatory states showing a potential function for raised prostaglandins in these memory shortfalls. In the present study, potential therapeutic effects of indomethacin and diclofenac sodium on memory in both unrestraint and restraint rats were observed.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Two components, long term memory and short term memory were examined by Morris water maze (MWM) and elevated plus maze (EPM) respectively. The present study also demonstrated the effect of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) on lipid peroxidation (LPO) and activities of antioxidant enzymes along with the activity of acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Results of MWM and EPM showed significant effects of drugs in both unrestraint and restraint rats as escape latency and transfer latency, in respective behavioral models were decreased as compared to that of control. This study also showed NSAIDs administration decreased LPO and increased antioxidant enzymes activity and decreased AChE activity in rats exposed to repeated stress.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion this study suggests a therapeutic potential of indomethacin and diclofenac against repeated stress-induced memory deficits.

Magnesium treatment palliates noise-induced behavioral deficits by normalizing DAergic and 5-HTergic metabolism in adult male rats

Magnesium (Mg) is the fourth most abundant biological mineral essential for good health. Neuroprotective, anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of magnesium following stress and brain injuries are well established. In present study, we analyzed the protective effects of magnesium in rats exposed to sub-chronic noise stress. Magnesium Chloride (MgCl2, 100 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally once daily for 15 days prior exposure to noise stress. Rats were exposed to noise stress for 4 h after administration of magnesium for 15 days. At the end of treatment behavioral alterations were assessed. Animals were decapitated following behavioral testing and the brains were dissected out for neurochemical estimations by HPLC-EC. Improvement in noise-induced memory deficits as assessed by novel object recognition (NOR) test and elevated plus maze (EPM) test was found in magnesium treated rats. This improvement in noise-induced behavioral deficits following treatment with magnesium may be attributed to a significant decrease (p < 0.01) in dopamine (DA) and serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine; 5-HT) turnover as compared to control rats observed in present work. These results suggest that treatment with magnesium can attenuate the noise-induced deficits and may be used as a therapy against noise-induced neurodegeneration. Moreover an adequate amount of magnesium in daily diet may help to develop the ability to resist against or cope up with stressful conditions encountered in daily life.

Short term cadmium administration dose dependently elicits immediate biochemical, neurochemical and neurobehavioral dysfunction in male rats

Cadmium is a toxic environmental and industrial pollutant. Cadmium toxicity has been reported to produce biochemical and behavioral dysfunction that may cause adverse effects on several organs including the central nervous system. The present study was designed to investigate the neurotoxic effects of Cadmium Chloride (CdCl2) at three different doses by using different behavioral models. Lipid peroxidation (LPO), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities were also monitored following acute intraperitoneal injection of cadmium. Twenty four adult locally bred Albino Wistar rats were divided into control and 3 test groups (n = 6). Control rats were injected intraperitoneally with saline (0.9% NaCl) and test groups were injected with CdCl2 (1 mg/kg, 2 mg/kg and 3 mg/kg) dissolved in physiological solution. Behavioral activities of rats were monitored after 1 h of cadmium injection. Locomotor activity and depression-like symptoms were measured by Open Field Test (OFT) and Forced Swimming Test (FST) respectively. Anxiety like behavior was monitored using Light-dark Transition (LDT) test and memory functions of rats were assessed by Morris Water Maze test (MWM). In the present study acute cadmium administration dose dependently increased anxiety in rats as compared to control rats. A significant increase in depression-like symptoms was also exhibited by cadmium treated rats. These behavioral dysfunctions may be attributed to the decreased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and simultaneously increased brain lipid peroxidation (LPO). Moreover learning and memory assessed by MWM showed dose dependent impairment in memory function in cadmium treated rats as compared to control rats. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was also decreased in brains of cadmium administered rats. It is suggested in this study that behavioral, biochemical and neurochemical dysfunctions caused by acute cadmium administration occur in a dose dependent manner.

Age-related learning and memory deficits in rats: role of altered brain neurotransmitters, acetylcholinesterase activity and changes in antioxidant defense system

Oxidative stress from generation of increased reactive oxygen species or free radicals of oxygen has been reported to play an important role in the aging. To investigate the relationship between the oxidative stress and memory decline during aging, we have determined the level of lipid peroxidation, activities of antioxidant enzymes, and activity of acetylcholine esterase (AChE) in brain and plasma as well as biogenic amine levels in brain from Albino-Wistar rats at age of 4 and 24 months. The results showed that the level of lipid peroxidation in the brain and plasma was significantly higher in older than that in the young rats. The activities of antioxidant enzymes displayed an age-dependent decline in both brain and plasma. Glutathione peroxidase and catalase activities were found to be significantly decreased in brain and plasma of aged rats. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) was also significantly decreased in plasma of aged rats; however, a decreased tendency (non-significant) of SOD in brain was also observed. AChE activity in brain and plasma was significantly decreased in aged rats. Learning and memory of rats in the present study was assessed by Morris Water Maze (MWM) and Elevated plus Maze (EPM) test. Short-term memory and long-term memory was impaired significantly in older rats, which was evident by a significant increase in the latency time in MWM and increase in transfer latency in EPM. Moreover, a marked decrease in biogenic amines (NA, DA, and 5-HT) was also found in the brain of aged rats. In conclusion, our data suggest that increased oxidative stress, decline of antioxidant enzyme activities, altered AChE activity, and decreased biogenic amines level in the brain of aged rats may potentially be involved in diminished memory function.

Nootropic and hypophagic effects following long term intake of almonds (Prunus amygdalus) in rats

INTRODUCTION

Over a period of time researchers have become more interested in finding out the potential of various foods to maintain the general health and to treat diseases. Almonds are a very good source of many nutrients which may help to sharpen the memory and to reduce cardiovascular risk factors.

OBJECTIVE

The present study was conducted to evaluate the nootropic effects of almonds. Effect of oral intake of almond was also monitored on food intake and plasma cholesterol levels.

METHODS

Rats were given almond paste orally with the help of feeding tube for 28 days. Memory function in rats was assessed by Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) and Radial Arm Maze (RAM). Brain tryptophan, 5-HT and 5-HIAA were estimated at the end of the treatment by HPLC-EC method.

RESULTS

A significant improvement in learning and memory of almond treated rats compared to controls was observed. Almond treated rats also exhibited a significant decrease in food intake and plasma cholesterol levels while the change in growth rate (in terms of percentage) remained comparable between the two groups. Analysis of brain tryptophan (TRP) monoamines exhibited enhanced TRP levels and serotonergic turnover in rat brain following oral intake of almonds.

CONCLUSION

The findings show that almonds possess significant hypophagic and nootropic effects. Results are discussed in context of enhanced 5-HT metabolism following almond administration.

Increased 5-HT Levels Following Repeated Administration of Nigella sativa L. (Black Seed) Oil Produce Antidepressant Effects in Rats

The seeds of Nigella sativa L., commonly known as black seed or black cumin, and its extracts are used in folk medicine in the Middle East and in Asian countries for the promotion of good health and as a remedy for many ailments. These seeds have many acclaimed medicinal properties such as broncho-dilatory, immunopotentiating, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and hypotensive. In the present study, the antidepressant activity following the repeated administration of Nigella sativa L. oil has been monitored using the forced swim test. Rats treated with Nigella sativa L. oil exhibited a significant increase in struggling time after oral administration of Nigella sativa L. oil (0.1 ml/kg/day) for four weeks. Nigella sativa L. oil increased brain 5-HT levels and decreased 5-HT turnover (5-HT/5-HIAA ratio). Levels of tryptophan increased significantly in the brain and plasma following the repeated administration of Nigella sativa L. oil. Nigella sativa L. oil showed a potential antidepressant-like effect.