DefinePK

Research Objective

To evaluate and examine the anti-amnesic effects of the methanol extract of Illicium verum hook.f (MEIV) using the radial arm maze model and to assess its cholinesterase inhibitory effects against scopolamine-induced memory impairment in mice.

Methodology

Experimental observational study involving 30 healthy albino mice. Mice were treated with graded doses of MEIV (300 and 500mg/kg p.o.) to assess its effectiveness against scopolamine-induced memory impairment. In-vitro studies were performed on isolated brain parts using a fluorescent spectrophotometer to analyze acetylcholinesterase levels. The study also included an acute toxicity test following OECD 423 guidelines and preliminary phytochemical screening of the MEIV. Behavioral assessments were conducted using a radial arm maze model, and biochemical estimations of acetylcholinesterase activity were performed.

Methodology Flowchart

                        graph TD
    A["Ethical Approval & Animal Procurement"] --> B["Phytochemical Screening of MEIV"];
    B --> C["Acute Toxicity Test of MEIV"];
    C --> D["Animal Grouping: Vehicle, Positive Control, Standard Drug, Test Drugs"];
    D --> E["Daily Drug Administration for 8 Days"];
    E --> F["Scopolamine Administration for Amnesia Induction"];
    F --> G["Behavioral Assessment: Radial Arm Maze"];
    G --> H["Brain Removal & Homogenization"];
    H --> I["Biochemical Estimation: Acetylcholinesterase Activity"];
    I --> J["Statistical Analysis"];
    J --> K["Results Interpretation & Conclusion"];                    

Discussion

The study suggests that MEIV produces anti-amnesic effects by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, likely due to the presence of phytochemicals such as alkaloids, flavonoids, triterpenoids, and polyphenols. This mechanism is relevant for treating memory impairments associated with neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease, which involve cholinergic system deficits. The antioxidant properties of Illicium verum may also contribute to neuroprotection.

Key Findings

Oral administration of MEIV reduced working and reference memory errors in scopolamine-treated mice. Active avoidance responses in scopolamine-treated groups decreased. Acetylcholinesterase levels were significantly reduced at the 300 mg/kg dose (102.05±1.93µmol/min/mg) compared to the positive control group (161.33±2.347 µmol/min/mg). MEIV was found to be safe up to a dose of 2000mg/kg.

Conclusion

Illicium verum hook.f possesses anti-amnesic effects, potentially mediated by the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase due to its rich phytochemical content. It is a promising candidate for further assessment as an herbal substitute for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Fact Check

1. Number of mice: The study used a total of N=30 healthy albino mice. (Confirmed in Methodology)
2. MEIV dose for AChE reduction: The acetylcholinesterase level was significantly reduced at the dose of 300 mg/kg. (Confirmed in Results)
3. Toxicity dose: The methanol extract of Illicium verum was found to be safe up to the dose of 2000mg/kg. (Confirmed in Results)

Mind Map