Neuroprotective effect of Prunus avium on streptozotocin induced neurotoxicity in mice

ObjectiveTo evaluate the anti-amnesic and neuroprotective activity of ethanolic extract of Prunus avium (EEPA) on streptozotocin (STZ) induced neurotoxicity in mice.MethodsThe mice were pre-treated with EEPA at selective doses (200, 400 mg/kg, p.o.) for a period of 3 weeks followed by intracerebroventricular injection (ICV) of STZ (0.5 mg/kg). Neurobehavioral-alterations were evaluated using Y-maze and elevated plus maze. Biochemical markers, such as acetylcholinesterase (AChE), corticosterone, thiobarbituric reactive substances (TBARS), tissue nitrite, antioxidants, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase were estimated.ResultsObtain results revealed those 28 days of treatment with EEPA was effective in averting neurotoxicity. EEPA supplementation significantly reduced AChE, corticosterone, TBARS, tissue nitrite levels and ameliorated the deficits in learning and memory impairment with increased levels of antioxidants.ConclusionsThese results envisage that ethanolic extract of Prunus avium exhibit cognitive improvement which is most likely related, at least in part, to its antioxidant and neuroprotective activity. Further studies are suggested to evaluate the isolated bioactive Prunus avium fruits to identify the molecular mechanism involved in modulation of cholinergic transmission.