Molecular Docking Studies of Alpinia galanga Phytoconstituents for Psychostimulant Activity

Abstract

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter responsible for sending signals from the central nervous system. It allows human beings to stay attentive and focused. Caffeine, the most widely consumed psychoactive substance in the world, is known to improve alertness by enhancing dopamine signaling in the brain. EnXtra?, an Alpinia galanga extract has been clinically proven to promote alertness however the mechanism for such action required elucidation. The current study was designed to explore the mechanism for the neurocognitive enhancing property of EnXtra? by the in-silico interaction of its potential compounds with various targets involved in such process namely Dopamine and Acetylcholinesterase (AchE). As evident by the outcomes of the study, active compounds of EnXtra? can block the dopamine reuptake thereby increasing the dopamine levels which further can enhance the visuospatial performance and mental clarity, leading to improved mental alertness. At the same time, its strong effect on Acetylcholinesterase receptors is indicative of its nootropic potential.