Evaluation of the effects of Astragalus mongholicus Bunge saponin extract on central nervous system functions

Ethnopharmacological relevanceIn traditional medicine, Astragalus mongholicus (AM) has been used for the treatment of general weakness, chronic illness, and to increase overall vitality.Aim of the studyThe present study investigated possible effects of the saponin fraction of AM on the central nervous system. Moreover, its effects on locomotor activity, anxiety, and hippocampal morphology were studied.Material and methodsAM extract was tested for its effects on locomotor activity using the Moti-Test, for situational anxiety in the elevated plus maze, and for anticonvulsant activity against acute pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures and in the PTZ kindling model.ResultsIt was shown that AM (50, 100, 200 mg/kg) did not interfere with locomotor activity and situational anxiety as measured in the elevated plus maze. In these doses, AM significantly suppressed pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures (p < 0.05). Its anticonvulsant efficacy was also evident against repeated PTZ seizures (p < 0.05). This suggests potential therapeutic usefulness. After subchronic application, the number of cells in hippocampal CA1 was reduced, whilst the cell number in CA3 and hilus remained unaffected.ConclusionsDoses of AM extract which did not interfere with locomotor acticity and situational anxiety appear to be useful in the treatment of convulsive disorders. The mechanisms underlying this effect on hippocampal morphology are not yet understood.

Graphical abstractAstragalus mongholicus (AM) root extract is used in the folk medicine for the treatment of general weakness, chronic illness, and to increase overall vitality. The effects of the saponin fraction on the central nervous system were evaluated. In doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg the extract did not interfere with locomotor activity and situational anxiety. However, single doses of 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg significantly suppressed pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizures. In a dose of 50 mg/kg its anticonvulsant efficacy was also evident against repeated PTZ seizures.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slide