Abstract
Bergapten is a furanocoumarin naturally occurring in the Apiaceae family and it is a well-known photosensitizing agent used in photochemotherapy. In this study, we investigated the influence of bergapten on cognitive function and mechanism underlying these effects in scopolamine-induced memory impairment in male Swiss mice. The passive avoidance test was used to evaluate the efficiency of memory acquisition and consolidation. The results demonstrated that both single and repeated administration of bergapten improved not only the acquisition but also consolidation of memory. The behavioral tests showed that bergapten prevented memory impairment induced by administration of scopolamine. Observed effects may result from the inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity in the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex. Also, bergapten caused significant anti-oxidative effects. These new findings provide pharmacological and biochemical support for the development of the coumarin’s potential in cognitive deficits.
Highlights
Dementia, a group of symptoms with memory deficits and losing social abilities, have become increasingly significant worldwide
Taking into account all the above, the current study aimed to evaluate the influence of bergapten on consolidation and acquisition of memory processes impaired by scopolamine administration in male Swiss mice
We revealed for the first time the procognitive effects of bergapten on memory processes, consolidation, and acquisition, in the scopolamine model of memory impairment in male Swiss mice
Summary
A group of symptoms with memory deficits and losing social abilities, have become increasingly significant worldwide. They are especially problematic in developed countries. Memory loss in dementia has different causes, e.g., alteration of cholinergic transmission, oxidative stress, inflammation, or monoaminergic disturbances. These effects contribute to neuronal apoptosis and to memory impairments (Deng et al, 2019). Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is considered as the most common cause of dementia in older people. Increased level of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is one of the mechanisms underlying cognitive dysfunction
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