Effects of Soya Beans and Brown Beans on the Neurobehaviour of Cassava-induced Konzo Disease Rat Model

Abstract

Background: Konzo disease is a neurological condition that affects the upper and lower motor neurons. This disease is prevalent in females and youngsters. The effects of soya beans and brown beans on neurobehavioural deficit in Cassava-induced konzo disease rat model were investigated in the present study. Materials and Methods: 30 male wistar rats weighing 200-250g were assigned to Group 1 (Control, n=5). They were fed on animal pellet, whereas Group 2 (Soya and Brown Beans, n=5) was provided Soya and Brown Beans. Bitter cassava flour was provided to Group 3 (cassava induced Konzo, n=15). Protein (Soya and Brown Beans) and bitter cassava flour were supplied to Group 4 (protein treatment group, n=5). Neurobehavioural paradigms (Forelimb grip strength and gait test) were carried out to assess the effect of cyanogenic bitter cassava on motor coordination. Result and Discussion: Forelimb grip strength test showed significant decrease in the grip strength in Cassava group compared to Control and Protein(Soya and Brown Beans) group (p<0.01). It was observed that there was significant increase in grip strength test in the Cassava+ Protein (Soya beans and Brown Beans) when compared to Cassava group (p<0.05). Gait test showed significant decrease in the stance, stride and sway length of Cassava group when compared to the Control and Protein (Soya and Brown Beans) group (p<0.01). However, Cassava+ Protein group had a significant increase in stance, stride and sway length when compare to Cassava group (p<0.05). Conclusions: This study has provided a reference data on the ameliorative effects of Soya beans and Brown Beans on the neurobehavior of Cassava induced Konzo disease rat model. The ameliorative effects may be as a result of the presence of flavonoids and tannins in the brown beans and soya beans. This study will be useful to the Anatomists and Neuroscientist.