Efficacy of mangiferin, kaempferol, and diosgenin on models of depression: A systematic review and network meta-analysis of rodent studies

Abstract

Background

Mangiferin (MGF), kaempferol (KMP), and diosgenin (DIO) are active compounds extracted from the dried rhizomes of Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bunge. that are proven to have antidepressant activity. However, no studies comprehensively compare and analyze the efficacy of MGF, KMP, and DIO.

Methods

We searched electronic databases (e.g., Cochrane Library, Embase, Scopus, and PubMed) for studies of three compounds in rodents from inception to October 2024, performing a systematic review and network meta-analysis. We used animal behavioral tests as outcome indicators, including the forced swimming test, tail suspension test, and sucrose preference test.

Results

A total of ten studies were included, involving 440 animals and six interventions. In the forced swimming test, the efficacy of fluoxetine was superior to KMP, MGF, and DIO. In the tail suspension test, DIO was more effective than fluoxetine, MGF, and KMP. In the sucrose preference test, the efficacy of fluoxetine was superior to MGF, DIO, and KMP. Specifically, MGF, KMP, and DIO significantly reduced the immobility time of the FST or TST and increased the sucrose preference index.

Conclusions

MGF, KMP, and DIO significantly improved depression-like behaviors of rodents, providing evidence for further development of new clinical antidepressants. Also, MGF, KMP, and DIO exert antidepressant effects primarily through anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, and regulation of neurotrophic factor and neurotransmitter levels.