Mumefural Improves Recognition Memory and Alters ERK-CREB-BDNF Signaling in a Mouse Model of Chronic Cerebral Hypoperfusion

Cognitive impairment resulting from chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is known as vascular dementia (VaD) and is associated with cerebral atrophy and cholinergic deficiencies. Mumefural (MF), a bioactive compound found in a heated fruit of Prunus mume Sieb. et Zucc, was recently found to improve cognitive impairment in a rat CCH model. However, additional evidence is necessary to validate the efficacy of MF administration for treating VaD. Therefore, we evaluated MF effects in a mouse CCH model using unilateral common carotid artery occlusion (UCCAO). Mice were subjected to UCCAO or sham surgery and orally treated with MF daily for 8 weeks. Behavioral tests were used to investigate cognitive function and locomotor activity. Changes in body and brain weights were measured, and levels of hippocampal proteins (brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK), cyclic AMP-response element-binding protein (CREB), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE)) were assessed. Additionally, proteomic analysis was conducted to examine the alterations in protein profiles induced by MF treatment. Our study showed that MF administration significantly improved cognitive deficits. Brain atrophy was attenuated and MF treatment reversed the increase in AChE levels. Furthermore, MF significantly upregulated p-ERK/ERK, p-CREB/CREB, and BDNF levels after UCCAO. Thus, MF treatment ameliorates CCH-induced cognitive impairment by regulating ERK/CREB/BDNF signaling, suggesting that MF is a therapeutic candidate for treating CCH.