Decreased GABA receptor in the striatum and spatial recognition memory deficit in epileptic rats: Effect of Bacopa monnieri and bacoside-A

Aim of the studyGamma-aminobutyric acid A receptors are the principal mediators of synaptic inhibition in striatal neurons and play an important role in preventing the spreading of seizures through the striatum. In the present study, effect of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennel and its active component bacoside-A on spatial recognition memory deficit and alterations of GABA receptor in the striatum of epileptic rats were investigated.Materials and methodsTotal GABA and GABAA receptor numbers in the control and epileptic rats were evaluated using [3H]GABA and [3H]bicuculline binding. GABAAα1, GABAAα5, GABAAγ3 and GABAAδ gene expressions were studied. Behavioral performance was assed using Y-maze.ResultsScatchard analysis of [3H]GABA and [3H]bicuculline in the striatum of epileptic rats showed significant decrease in Bmax compared to control. Real-Time PCR amplification of GABAA receptor subunits such as GABAAα1, GABAAα5 and GABAAδ, were down regulated (p < 0.001) in the striatum of epileptic rats compared to control. Epileptic rats have deficit in Y-maze performance. Bacopa monnieri and bacoside-A treatment reversed these changes to near control.ConclusionOur results suggest that decreased GABA receptors in the striatum have an important role in epilepsy associated motor learning deficits and Bacopa monnieri and bacoside-A has a beneficial effect in the management of epilepsy.

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