In-vivo evaluation of neuroprotective effect of Chinese plant calendula officinalis Linn. Flower Extract against Aluminium chloride-induced Alzheimer's in Wistar rats

Objective

To investigate the neuroprotective properties of Calendula Officinalis Linn. flower extract (COE) against mild cognitive decline and cognitive dysfunction induced by aluminium chloride (AlCl₃) in experimental rats.

Methodology

COE (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg p.o.) was given once daily following the treatment of AlCl₃ (100 mg/kg p.o.) to male Wistar rats for 20 days. On the 1st, 10th, and 20th days, the walking track test, locomotor activity, and object recognition test were used as behaviour characteristics to assess spatial and non-spatial memory. On the 21st day, animals were sacrificed and brains removed for biochemical and histopathological analysis.

Results

Calendula officinalis Linn. extract significantly attenuated the ^AlCl₃^-induced alterations in body weight, and motor coordination such as locomotion, stride length, and object recognition parameters. COE also reduced oxidative stress by increasing GSH, catalase, SOD, and decreasing TBARS levels. Calendula officinalis Linn. extract high dose showed most prominent therapeutic effects. P < 0.05 and mean ± SD were used to compare mean values with normal control, disease control, and high doses of Calendula officinalis Linn. extract.

Discussion

Based on our study, oxidative stress has been proposed as a mechanism for AlCl₃-induced neurotoxicity. We conclude that Calendula officinalis Linn. flower extract substantially decreased oxidative stress and behavioural alterations in rats treated with aluminium chloride. Calendula officinalis flowers may provide significant neuroprotective effects, potentially improving memory and learning abilities. Calendula officinalis Linn flower extract contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that might be responsible for its neuroprotective properties.