Neuroprotective and antioxidant potential of Ficus carica leaves extract in scopolamine induced memory impairment

Abstract

Ficus species has been reported to be used in prevention and therapy of various diseases but little information is available regarding the effects of its leaf extract on memory related disorders. This study was designed to monitor the effect of Ficus carica leaves (FCL) administration in healthy and rat model of memory impairment. Thirty male albino Wistar rats were divided into five groups: control, scopolamine (SCO), donepezil treated positive control, FCL extract treated and SCO+FCL extract treated rats. FCL extract was given at dose of 250 mg/kg daily for 3 weeks. Scopolamine (0.5 mg/kg) was injected to induce memory impairment before the evaluation of behavior. After three weeks of FCL extract treatment, behavioral, biochemical and neurochemical analysis were done. Results showed that FCL extract improved spatial working memory in scopolamine injected rats. FCL treatment reversed scopolamine-induced anxiety, depression and impairment in memory functions. Decreased acetylcholine level in scopolamine injected rats was reversed by FCL administration while antioxidant enzyme activity was also improved. It was therefore suggested that FCL extract exerts its effects by enhancing brain acetylcholine levels and by improving antioxidant enzyme activities. The findings may help to improve therapeutics in oxidative stress-induced memory impairment.