Cognitive enhancing effect of an extract of Swertia chirata against memory impairment induced by aluminum chloride

Background

The most advanced type of neurodegenerative disease, Alzheimer's disease (AD), significantly reduces cognitive performance. Oxidative stress plays a role in the pathophysiological pathways of several neurodegenerative illnesses. Aluminum is one of the most potent neurotoxins known to cause oxidative stress in neurodegenerative disorders. Since there are currently few therapy options for AD, more alternatives are required. The current investigation aimed to assess the nootropic potential of Swertia chirata in rats.

Materials and Method

AlCl3 (100 mg/kg, p.o.) was used to induce amnesia, piracetam (500 mg/kg, p.o.) was employed as a standard, and an ethanolic extract of Swertia chirata (50, 100, 200, 400 mg/kg) was utilized to assess nootropic activity. The Novel Object Recognition test and the elevated plus maze in AlCl3-induced amnesia models were used to evaluate the effects of medications on learning and memory in rats. This impairment is likely due to the increased vulnerability of brain cells to oxidative stress. Numerous studies have demonstrated that certain flavonoid antioxidants reduce oxidative stress-induced neuronal apoptosis.

Results

Swertia chirata ethanolic extract exhibited longer exploration times for unfamiliar objects compared to familiar ones. Additionally, the ethanolic extract demonstrated a reduction in transfer latency in the elevated plus maze (EPM) in the AlCl3-induced amnesia paradigm, indicating an improvement in cognitive function.

Conclusion

In experimental models, the ethanolic extract of Swertia chirata significantly (p < 0.05) reversed AlCl3-induced amnesia and improved learning and memory. The study demonstrated the neuroprotective qualities of the extract. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may contribute to its potential in treating cognitive disorders, including dementia and Alzheimer's disease.