In-silico and in-vivo evaluation of comparative enhanced neurogenic performance by energy drinks

Abstract

Objective: In the present society, the energy drinks (EDs) are used by general public and mainly by the sports persons. Though the caffeine content of EDs is creating health consequences on excess consumption, the present study targets their health benefits on central nervous system (CNS) focusing antidepressant and cognitive potentiality. The most typically used EDs have been selected for the study such as Red Bull, Monster and Enerzal for the present research. Methodology: The study started with in-silico studies to get information about the neurological receptor binding of the major and common chemical components of the EDs. The antidepressant study of energy drinks was carried out following FST (Forced Swim Test) and TST (Tail suspension test) methods. Their cognition effect was assessed by using Y-maze apparatus. Further, their mechanism of action was evaluated by estimating their effect on brain dopamine and serotonin level. Results: In-silico study revealed the enhanced agonistic binding of the major common components of the EDs to D2 and serotonin receptors. Further their significant (p<0.001) antidepressant property was estimated both in tail suspension and forced swim tests along with significant cognitive property.