Abstract

NOOTROPIC EFFECT OF VIGNA MUNGO (L.) HEPPER SEEDS EXTRACT IN SCOPOLAMINE INDUCED AMNESIC RATS

Rajeev Kumar Varma*, Lubhan Singh, Vipin Kumar Garg, Piyush Yadav, Vineet Kumar Singh

ABSTRACT

Aim of the Study: Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper seeds extract consisted of flavonoids, phenolic compounds and Vitamin C etc. have important antioxidant functions that can protect against oxidative stress in the brain and damage associated with neurodegenerative disorders. The present study was investigated the protective effect of ethanolic extract of Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper seeds on learning and memory functions in scopolamine induced memory deficits rats. Materials and Methods: In scopolamine induced cognitive deficit rat model Wistar albino rats of either sex weighing 200-300 g were divided into 8 groups (6 animals per group). Group 1 served as normal control (NC), Group 2 received SCO (2 mg/kg i.p.), Groups 3, 4 and 5 served as per se groups received piracetam (PR) (200 mg/kg i.p.), EVME (200 mg/kg p.o.) and EVME (400 mg/kg p.o.), Groups 6, 7 and 8 served as cognitive deficit groups which received PR (200 mg/kg i.p), EVME (200 mg/kg p.o.) and EVME (400 mg/kg p.o.) for 28 days respectively followed by SCO (2 mg/kg i.p.). The protective and cognitive enhancing effects of EVME on cognitive deficit rats induced by scopolamine were investigated by assessing the elevated plus maze and the Morris water maze test. In order to confirm the underlying mechanisms of memory enhancing effects of EVME, activities of AChE. Results:Administration of EVME (400 mg/kg p.o.) significantly improve memory and restored memory impairments induced by SCO in the elevated plus maze (decrease in TL) and also in the Morris water maze test (reduced EL). The increased AChE activity produced by SCO was significantly inhibited by EVME (400 mg/kg).

Keywords: Amnesia, Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper, Memory, Elevated plus-maze, Actophotometer.