Neuroprotective Effects of Buccholzia coriacea Seed on AlCl3-induced Memory Impairment in Adult Albino Rats

Memory impairment is a neurodegenerative condition that is associated with poor cognition. Aluminium chloride (AlCl3) is a neurotoxic agent that disrupts the structure-function of the brain, leading to impaired cognition and memory. Buccholzia coriacea is traditionally reputed to boost memory. This study aimed at testing the aforementioned hypothesis through the use of B. coriacea seed and vitamins C and E on AlCl3-induced memory impairment in adult albino rats. Twenty-five female rats were divided into five groups of five rats each. Each group was administered: distilled water (control group), 1 ml/kg BW olive oil, 100 mg/kg BW AlCl3 (negative control), 100 mg/kg BW AlCl3 followed by 100 mg/kg BW vitamins C and 1000 IU/kg BW of vitamin E and the last group received 200 mg/kg BW of B. coriacea after 100 mg/kg BW AlCl3 administration for 28 days. AlCl3 administration lead to impaired memory and spatial learning. Treatment with B. coriacea improved memory and improved memory retention and modulated brain oxidative stress levels as observed from the depleted level of malondialdehyde and increased levels of the oxidized glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase levels of the hippocampus. In conclusion, our study demonstrates that the use of B. coriacea is a promising plant for reducing oxidative stress, neurotoxicity, and for memory enhancement.

Key Words: memory, Buccholzia coriacea, hippocampus, oxidative stress