Exploring Neuroprotective Properties of Centella Asiatica Extract on Metabolic Change in Chronic Stress-Induced Rats

Abstract

Stress is a mode of adaptive response towards external demands, and prolonged exposure to stress is known to promote aging and neurodegeneration. Several therapies promote neuroprotection but are usually accompanied by adverse consequences. Traditional medicine has been proven as an effective alternative for promoting pharmacological health benefits such as wound healing, boosting memory function and reducing oxidative stress. Centella asiatica (CeA) has also gaining attention as an alternative option in promoting neuroprotective activities against neurodegenerative disorders and neuronal injuries. In this study, the neurodegenerative condition of rats was achieved using chronic stress through movement restraint and forced swimming for 21 consecutive days. Here, the neuroprotective properties of three different dosage of CeA (200 mg/kg/day, 400 mg/kg/day and 800 mg/kg/day) was evaluated using metabolomics approach. The administration of CeA shown distinction between untreated group and treated group; and reducing the effect of chronic stress in rats. The extract also demonstrated a significant elevation in several metabolites (lactate, isoleucine, proline, methionine, valine, leucine and glutamine) in rats treated with CeA, particularly in rats administered with 800 mg/kg of CeA. These significant metabolites play important roles in variety of biochemical function of the brain such as the synthesis of protein, energy metabolism, synthesis of neurotransmitter, protection against oxidative stress and compartmentalisation of glutamate. The results of this study may contribute towards greater understanding of molecular mechanism of CeA in promoting neuroprotective properties against neurodegeneration from exposure to chronic stress.
 
 Keywords: Centella asiatica, Chronic Stress, NMR-based metabolomics, Serum Metabolites