Celastrus Paniculatus Research Articles

Evaluation of comparative efficacy of Celastrus paniculatus (Jyotishmati) capsule versus sertraline capsule in the management of Chittodvega (generalized anxiety disorder): protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (Chittodvega) is one among many types of mental disorders explained in Ayurveda. It can be defined as a Chitta (mind) + Udvega (anxiety)= Chittodvega- Anxious status of a mind. Celastrus paniculatus also known as Jyotishmati stimulates and improves the digestive fire and metabolism at a cellular level (Jatharagni and Majja dhatwagni). It can be correlated to GAD. GAD is characterized by feelings of threat, restlessness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and tension, and symptoms such as palpitations, dry mouth, and sweating. It affects women more frequently than men and prevalence rates are high in midlife (prevalence in females over age 35: 10%) and older subjects. In modern medicine the first-line psychological and pharmaceutical treatments are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (SNRIs). Aim and objectives To evaluate the comparative efficacy of Jyotishmati versus sertraline in the management of Chittodvega. Methods In this randomized active controlled double blind equivalence trial a total of 70 patients will be enrolled and divided into two equal groups. Patients between 20–50 years age of either gender having symptoms of Chittodvega and a Hamilton anxiety rating (HAM-A) scale score less than 24 (i.e., mild to moderate) will be selected for the study. In Group A, sertraline capsules 25 mg for first 7 days and then dose increased to 50 mg at bedtime for next 53 days and in Group B Jyotishmati Capsules 500 mg will be given twice a day after food with water for 60 days. Result and observation The patients will be assessed on the HAM-A scale, serum cortisol and WHO Quality of Life on day 0, 30, 60 and 90 and data will be analyzed using paired and unpaired t-tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables to evaluate whether treatments are equivalent. Trial registration CTRI No. REF/2023/07/069880 Date – 15/09/2023

The Neuropharmacological Properties of Malkangni (Celastrus paniculatus Willd.): Insights from Unani Medicine and Pharmacological Research: A Review

Malkangni, also known as Celastrus paniculatus Willd., is a herb widely used in the Unani system of medicine for its neuropharmacological properties. The seeds and oil of Malkangni have therapeutic benefits, including enhancing memory and cognitive functions. Malkangni exhibits a range of pharmacological activities, including neuroprotective, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. It has shown potential to improve learning and memory, sedation, and anti-convulsive properties and treat conditions such as leprosy, rheumatism, diarrhea, and arthritis. The diverse pharmacological activities of Malkangni suggest its potential in treating various health conditions. This review aims to describe the medicinal properties and therapeutic applications of Malkangni through the perspective of Unani medicine and its phytochemical and pharmacological studies. Keywords: Malkangni, Celastrus paniculatus, Unani medicine, traditional medicine, natural medicine

Evaluation of comparative efficacy of Celastrus paniculatus (Jyotishmati) capsule versus sertraline capsule in the management of Chittodvega (generalized anxiety disorder): protocol for a randomized controlled trial.

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (Chittodvega) is one among many types of mental disorders explained in Ayurveda. It can be defined as a Chitta (mind) + Udvega (anxiety)= Chittodvega- Anxious status of a mind. Celastrus paniculatus also known as Jyotishmati. stimulates and improves the digestive fire and metabolism at a cellular level ( Jatharagni and Majja dhatwagni). It can be correlated to GAD. GAD is characterized by feelings of threat, restlessness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and tension, and symptoms such as palpitations, dry mouth, and sweating. It affects women more frequently than men and prevalence rates are high in midlife (prevalence in females over age 35: 10%) and older subjects. In modern medicine the first-line psychological and pharmaceutical treatments are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (SNRIs). To evaluate the comparative efficacy of Jyotishmati versus sertraline in the management of Chittodvega. In this randomized active controlled double blind equivalence trial a total of 70 patients will be enrolled and divided into two equal groups. Patients between 20-50 years age of either gender having symptoms of Chittodvega and a Hamilton anxiety rating (HAM-A) scale score less than 24 (i.e., mild to moderate) will be selected for the study. In Group A, sertraline capsules 25 mg for first 7 days and then dose increased to 50 mg at bedtime for next 53 days and in Group B Jyotishmati Capsules 500 mg will be given twice a day after food with water for 60 days. The patients will be assessed on the HAM-A scale, serum cortisol and WHO Quality of Life on day 0, 30, 60 and 90 and data will be analyzed using paired and unpaired t-tests for continuous variables and chi-square tests for categorical variables to evaluate whether treatments are equivalent. CTRI No. REF/2023/07/069880 Date - 15/09/2023.

The Phytochemical Analysis and Anthelmintic Potential of Celastrus paniculatus Seed: An In-Vitro Assessment

As the quality requirements are predicated on appropriate raw material selection, standardization is important to the development of phytopharmaceuticals of standard quality. A traditional Ayurvedic medicine plant, Celastrus paniculatus Wild (Celastraceae), has been used for millennia as a sedative, antiepileptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, and memory-enhancing drug. For rheumatism, gout, paralysis, and leprosy, a decoction of seeds is prescribed. The current study looks at morphological and microscopic characteristics, ash value, extractive values, and phytochemical assessments, which include a qualitative chemical analysis of the active ingredients. It was found that different seed extracts had varying degrees of anthelmintics.

Celastrus paniculatus seeds as a green corrosion inhibitor for stainless steel in H2SO4 acidic solution

Corrosion poses a significant threat to the durability and safety of metallic structures, particularly in aggressive environments such as sulfuric acid solutions. In this study, the corrosion inhibition performance of Celastrus paniculatus for steel in 0.5 M H2SO4 is investigated. Celastrus paniculatus, a natural plant extract known for its potential corrosion-inhibitive properties, is explored as a green alternative to synthetic inhibitors.The experimental methodology involves the immersion of steel specimens in 0.5 M H2SO4 solutions containing various concentrations of Celastrus paniculatus extract. Electrochemical techniques, such as potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, assess corrosion inhibition efficiency. Surface analysis techniques, i.e., scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were employed to investigate the steel surfaces' morphological changes and elemental composition also Quantum Chemical Computations were conducted to find the energy levels of the Lowest Unoccupied Molecular Orbital (ELUMO) and Highest Occupied Molecular Orbital (EHOMO) and the energy gap (ΔE) between HUMO and LUMO from the optimized structure to find of which phytochemical absorb on the surface of the metal and this, we can clear that lower energy containing phytochemical will absorb more on the metal surface and have their greater efficiency. The study contributes to the development of environmentally friendly and sustainable corrosion inhibitors for steel in corrosive media, with potential applications in various industrial sectors. In metallic industries during acid cleaning or pickling processes metal undergoes acidic corrosion. This acidic corrosion can be prevented by many ways including alloying or dealloying of metals, anodic and cathodic protection or application of inhibitors. In this study, we have used the Celastrus paniculatus seed extract. Although its medicinal applications were explored but it was not used as a anticorrosive agent. So here we have determined the anticorrosive effects of Celastrus paniculatus seed in 0.5 M H2SO4 and used this as a novel and highly effective during acid cleaning.

Celastrus paniculatus seed extract exhibits neuroprotective effects against MPP+‑induced apoptotic cell death via GSK‑3β in a Parkinson's disease model.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disease induced by the death of dopaminergic neurons. Seed oil of Celastrus paniculatus (CP) Willd. has protective and antioxidant properties; however, to the best of our knowledge, no studies have analyzed the neuroprotective effect of CP seeds on PD. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects and mechanism of CP seed extract (CPSE) using an in vitro 1-methyl-4-phenylpyridinium ion (MPP+)-induced PD model. The effect of CPSE on the expression levels of apoptotic marker proteins, such as Bcl-2 and its upstream pathway protein, glycogen synthase kinase-3β (GSK-3β), was investigated in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. The effect of CPSE on the viability of SH-SY5Y cells was evaluated using MTT assay. To investigate the potential neuroprotective effect of CPSE, SH-SY5Y cells were treated with MPP+ to induce PD-associated cytotoxicity. SH-SY5Y cells were treated with 2 mM MPP+ before or after CPSE treatment to determine the protective effect of CPSE against MPP+-induced neurotoxicity using MTT, WST-1 and lactate dehydrogenase assays. Moreover, it was investigated whether CPSE could promote survival signals by regulating the protein expression levels of apoptotic markers (Bcl-2 and GSK-3β) using western blotting. High concentrations and prolonged treatment of CPSE did not have any adverse effect on SH-SY5Y cell viability. Furthermore, MPP+-induced dopaminergic neuron damage was ameliorated by CPSE treatment. CPSE also showed anti-apoptotic activity by reversing the inhibitory effects of MPP+ on Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, CPSE abolished MPP+-induced decreases in phosphorylated-GSK-3β (Ser9) expression. Taken together, the present findings suggested that CPSE may exert a neuroprotective effect in PD.

Biogenic synthesis of copper oxide nanosheets using Celastrus paniculatus: Insights into antibacterial and anticancer efficacy supported by computational study

The metallic nanomaterials synthesized using green nanotechnology have recently gained attention for their low-cost, simple preparation methods, and environmental sustainability. In this study, biogenic copper oxide nanosheets (CuO NS) were synthesized using the seed extract of Celastrus paniculatus, and characterized by various advanced instrumentation techniques including FTIR, XRD, FESEM, and TEM analysis. Docking simulation studies demonstrated that the interaction between CuO NS and the Staphylococcus aureus receptor (2I80) was strong, with docking scores ranging from −4.0 to −5.1 and a free binding energy of −24.48 ± 0.63 kcal/mol. The antibacterial activity of CuO NS against Staphylococcus aureus and Enterobacter aerogenes was analyzed by well diffusion method. In addition to that, antibiofilm, ROS generation, growth kinetics, and anticancer efficacy of CuO NS was also evaluated. The anticancer results indicated that CuO NS effectively reduced the cell viability of both cancer cell lines (MCF 7 & MDA MB 231). The findings from the antibacterial and anticancer studies suggest that the biologically synthesized CuO NS could serve as a promising alternative for bacterial diseases and cancer treatments.

Nootropic Effect of Celastrus paniculatus on Restraint Stress Induced Behavioral and Biochemical Changes in Wistar Albino Rats

Background: Stress most certainly plays a significant role in everyday life. The natural biological balance is disrupted by stressful events, which has a negative impact on normal physiological and psychological function. In the last 20 years, there hasn't been much advancement in the creation of medications, efficient drug delivery systems, or treatments for Central Nervous System (CNS)-related issues. The ancient Ayurvedic herb Celastrus paniculatus (CP) has been used for millennia as a memory booster, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, sedative, and antiepileptic drug. The neuropharmacological effects of the seed extract have been thoroughly studied in a variety of laboratories, and there are numerous findings that support their nootropic function. Aim: To investigate the effects of Celastrus paniculatus against restraint stress, induced behavioral and biochemical changes in male Wistar albino rats. Methods: The animals were divided into five groups. Each group includes six animals. Group I: Control, Group II: Restraint stress (6hrs for 21 days), Group III: Celastrus paniculatus (400mg/kg, orally) and restraint Stress, Group IV: Celastrus paniculatus alone, Group V: Vehicle. The behavioral changes are assessed by Place Preference test, Elevated plus Maze. Animals were euthanized and the discrete regions of the brain were homogenized for biochemical estimation, such as Catalase, SOD, LPO, GPX, GSH, Vitamin C. Animal’s cognitive and anxiety-related behavior and antioxidants were examined the following day after the stress procedure and treatment. Results: Following a period of 21 days of being subjected to restraint stress, the behavioral changes were reduced in stress group when compared to control group, and also the levels of Lipid peroxidase significant (P<0.05) increased in the restraint stress group as compared to the control group. Enzymatic antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), Vitamin C, Glutathione experienced a significant (P<0.05) reduction in the restraint stress group as opposed to the control group. Conclusion: Chronic restraint stress has adverse effects on the animal’s cognition, memory, and learning abilities as well as anxiety-related behavior. However, Celastrus paniculatus treatment shows enhanced performance in anxiety-related Behavior and antioxidant properties.

Gas chromatography‐mass spectrophotometric profile of cold‐pressed Celastrus paniculatus seed oil and its high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic analysis emphasizing squalene content

AbstractCelastrus paniculatus, a medicinal plant with diverse therapeutic activities, is known as ‘malkangani’ in the traditional medicine system of India, Ayurveda. It is well known for its memory‐enhancing potential. The reported work involves the gas chromatography‐mass spectrophotometric analysis of cold‐pressed seed oil of Celastrus paniculatus. It revealed the presence of components such as monosaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated long‐chain fatty acids, and their derivatives. It also showed the presence of terpenes such as squalene, β amyrone, β amyrin acetate, and long‐chain hydrocarbons. Among all the constituents, squalene was found to be a major component. Hence, considering the potential pharmacological actions of squalene, a high‐performance thin‐layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method has been developed for its quantification and subsequently validated as per the International Conference of Harmonization guidelines. A HPTLC fingerprint of oil was obtained on pre‐coated silica gel 60 F254 aluminum sheets, using n‐hexane‐diethyl ether‐glacial acetic acid (7:3:0.05 v/v/v). A densitometric scan was performed at 470 nm after derivatization with vanillin sulphuric acid to quantify squalene. A well‐resolved squalene peak was obtained at a retardation factor of 0.85. It is a simple approach for the estimation of squalene in Celastrus paniculatus seed oil for quality control.

Traditional and green approaches to the synthesis of copper-containing nanoparticles using chemical reduction

The problem of obtaining copper-containing nanoparticles by chemical reduction has been studied. A comparison is made of traditional and “green” approaches to synthesis. The experimental data obtained during the synthesis of copper nanoparticles in the presence of a polymer stabilizer (polyvinylpyrrolidone) and a reducing agent (tert-butylamine-borane), as well as literature data on the synthesis of nanoparticles using plant and conditionally “green” substances (glucose, extracts of Ocimum sanctum and Celastrus paniculatus leaves, Sarcostemma acidum stem). The advantages and disadvantages of these approaches are identified and discussed. It is noted that the industrial applicability of “green” methods is limited due to the need to create completely new production of reagents for synthesis. In addition, the application of green synthesis is difficult due to scalability and standardization issues. Environmental pollution associated with the production of plant extracts also requires additional assessment. It has been established that traditional synthesis methods remain relevant for modern industry, and “green” methods have prospects for use in the distant future.

Evaluation of comparative efficacy of Celastrus paniculatus (Jyotishmati) capsule versus sertraline capsule in the management of Chittodvega (generalized anxiety disorder): protocol for a randomized controlled trial

Background Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (Chittodvega) is one among many types of mental disorders explained in Ayurveda. It can be defined as a Chitta (mind) + Udvega (anxiety)= Chittodvega- Anxious status of a mind. Celastrus paniculatus is one of the most important medicinal plants of the Celatraceae family commonly known as Jyotishmati. It stimulates and improves the digestive fire and metabolism at a cellular level (Jatharagni and Majja dhatwagni). It can be correlated to GAD. GAD is characterized by feelings of threat, restlessness, irritability, sleep disturbance, and tension, and symptoms such as palpitations, dry mouth, and sweating. It affects women more frequently than men and prevalence rates are high in midlife (prevalence in females over age 35: 10%) and older subjects. In modern medicine the first-line psychological and pharmaceutical treatments are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like sertraline (SNRIs). Aim and objectives To evaluate the comparative efficacy of Jyotishmati versus sertraline in the management of Chittodvega. Methods In this randomized clinical equivalence trial a total of 70 patients will be enrolled and divided into two equal groups. Patients between 20–50 years age of either gender having symptoms of Chittodvega and a Hamilton anxiety rating (HAM-A) scale score less than 24 (i.e., mild to moderate) will be selected for the study. In Group A, sertraline capsules 25 mg for first 7 days and then dose increased to 50 mg at bedtime for next 53 days and in Group B Jyotishmati Capsules 500 mg will be given twice a day after food with water for 60 days. Result and observation The patients will be assessed on the HAM-A scale, serum cortisol and WHO Quality of Life on day 0, 30, 60 and 90 and data collected will be analysed by using statistical tests. Trial registration CTRI No. REF/2023/07/069880 Date – 15/09/2023

Celastrus paniculatus: Distribution, medicinal significance, and conservation prioritization for sustainable utilization

Celastrus paniculatus Willd. is a medicinally important plant species distributed in various parts of the world but mainly in India. This species is used in Indian systems of medicine such as Siddha, Ayurveda, Unani, and Homeopathy for having therapeutic properties due to active secondary metabolites. Its botanical, and phenological events are necessary to understand the physiology of the species for its conservation prioritization at natural habitat. This review provides an overview of the distribution pattern with its various habitats and soil types, the ethnobotanical and medicinal importance of the species as well as challenges and conservation aspects for the preservation of this species.

Direct organogenesis, physiochemical evaluation, chemical characterization and genetic uniformity analysis through SCoT marker in Celastrus paniculatus (Willd.): A medicinally important plant

Celastrus paniculatus (Willd.) is a rare woody climbing shrub with high medicinal value used in primary healthcare system and herbal drug formulation as its various parts have immense medicinal properties. The current study focuses to design a refined methodology for the micropropagation of C. paniculatus using young nodal segment explants. A reliable shoot multiplication protocol was attained on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium augmented with 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) (5.0 µ M) + meta-Topolin (mT) (2.5 µ M) + gibberellic acid (GA3) (2.5 µ M) + adenine sulphate (ADS) (20.0 µ M) which gave a maximum number of 26.0 ± 0.01 shoots/explant along with 8.5 ± 0.02 cm of shoot length. In vitro regenerated microshoots were accomplished to ex vitro rooting efficiently with a 15 min pulse treatment with two ethylene inhibitors [salicylic acid (SAA) and silver nitrate (AgNO3)] and then transfer to soilrite™. The treatment of SAA (200 μM) proved better for healthy root formation with 10.5 ± 0.017 roots/microshoot and a mean root length of 3.5 ± 0.024 cm under culture condition. The genetic stability of in vitro regenerated plantlets and mother plant was validated by start codon targeted (SCoT) primer based molecular analysis. Healthy adaptation of these plantlets to natural conditions was also revealed by numerous biochemical and photosynthetic parameters along with Scanning Electron Microscopic (SEM) analysis of leaves. Furthermore, a comparison of secondary metabolites from mother and regenerated plants was done by Gas Chromatography and Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis.

In vitro propagation and genetic fidelity analysis of Celastrus paniculatus Willd – a vulnerable high trade medicinal woody liana of Western Ghats

Celastrus paniculatus Willd, a vulnerable important woody liana with high medicinal value and limited reproductive capacity has been over exploited due to its demand in the pharmaceutical industry. In the present study, an efficient micropropagation protocol was developed from nodal explants on Murashige and Skoog and woody plant medium. The effect of various strengths of WP and MS medium (total, half strength) and different concentrations of plant growth regulators including cytokinins [6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and Kinetin) and auxins (α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and (IBA) indole-3-butyric acid] on proliferation and rooting was investigated. C. paniculatus shoots showed maximum proliferation in WP medium supplemented with BAP (0.5 mg l-1). Best rooting frequency and higher root number and length were attained in medium fortified with NAA in combination with 0.2% activated charcoal. Seventy percent of the plantlets were successfully acclimatized to ex vitro conditions, exhibiting normal development. These plantlets can be used to replenish the declining populations in the wild. Molecular profiling of the in vitro developed plantlets was done using RAPD to confirm their genetic uniformity.

C.N.S. Protective Drugs: An Overview

Although regulatory authorities presently authorize extremely few drugs for dealing with multifactorial conditions and conditions of cognition such as Alzheimer's, specific plant-derived agents, consisting of, for instance, galantamine and rivastigmine (a semi-synthetic derivative of physostigmine) finding an application in contemporary medicine. However, in Ayurveda, the Indian traditional system of medicine which is more than 5000 years of ages, selected plants have long been categorized as 'Medhyarasayanas,' from the Sanskrit words 'Medhya,' indicating intellect or cognition, and 'Rasayana,' implying 'rejuvenation.' These plants are utilized both in natural and traditional medicine and offer advantages that pharmaceutical drugs do not have. The article is an attempt to examine the most critical medical plants, consisting of Vacha (Acorus calamus), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), Vidhara (Argyreia Nervosa), Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus prostratus), Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus), Mandukaparni (Centella Asiatica), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jyotishmati (Celastrus paniculatus) which are extensively used for their reputed effectiveness in C.N.S. conditions. This paper’s main aim is to explore C.N.S. Protective drugs or Medhya Rasayana mentioned in Ayurvedic classical textbooks concerning modern science mode of actions and to study the mechanism of the C.N.S. protective drugs. The source for this study is collected from classical Ayurvedic books and commentaries, modern medical science textbooks, and different articles from Pubmed, D.H.A.R.A., Google Scholar, etc. Various Medhya Rasayana mentioned in Ayurvedic texts have potent qualities to enhance memory and relieve medical illnesses related to C.N.S., whether it is related to mental or sensory problems. So, various safe and natural remedies are available in Ayurveda; long-term or short-term mental health can be recovered without any life-threatening complication.

Correction to: Celastrus paniculatus oil ameliorates NF-KB mediated neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity in the scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment rat model

Correction to: Celastrus paniculatus oil ameliorates NF-KB mediated neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity in the scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment rat model

Erratum to " Celastrus paniculatus oil ameliorates synaptic plasticity in a rat model of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder"

Erratum to " Celastrus paniculatus oil ameliorates synaptic plasticity in a rat model of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder"

Hypoglycaemic, Hypolipidaemic and Antioxidant Properties of Celastrus paniculatus Seed Extract in STZ-induced Diabetic Rats

Background: Celastrus paniculatus is a herb used in the Ayurvedic system of medicine that has been reported to show multiple pharmacological properties. In this study, we explored the antioxidative, hypolipidaemic and hypoglycaemic potential of C. paniculatus methanolic seed extract (CPMSE) in high-fat diet (HFD)/streptozotocin (STZ)-induced type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) rats.Materials and methods: Seeds of C. paniculatus were extracted in methanol using Soxhlet extraction method. A total of 36 rats were induced with STZ and HFD and treated with glibenclamide or various concentrations of CPMSE. Upon treatment, blood samples were collected and kidney and liver samples were homogenised. Serum biochemical estimation was performed using several diagnostic kits. Protein was estimated by bicinchoninic acid (BCA) method. Oxidative stress was assessed by measuring malondialdehyde level and superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) activity.Results: CPMSE caused improvements in glucose homeostasis, lipid profile, liver function and oxidative stress parameters in a dose-dependent manner. CPMSE significantly decreased the levels of fasting blood glucose and glycated haemoglobin as well as increased insulin level and total protein content. There was an increase in total cholesterol (TC), low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), triglycerides (TG) levels and reduction in high density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) level. There was a decrease in serum levels of serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP). CPMSE decreased LPO and increased CAT, SOD and GST activity.Conclusion: CPMSE has hypoglycaemic, hypolipidaemic and antioxidant properties by reducing the oxidative stress.Keywords: diabetes mellitus, Celastrus paniculatus, antioxidant, phytochemicals, phytonutrients, streptozotocin, high-fat diet

Celastrus paniculatus and memantine prevent alcohol dependence and improve decision making in alcohol dependent C57BL6 mice

Background: Alcohol use disorder poses a huge burden with only a handful of approved drugs. AUD is associated with impaired decision-making that leads to compulsive drinking despite negative consequences. A drug that decreases alcohol consumption as well as improves decision-making may thus prove more useful. This study was planned to evaluate the effect of two drugs, Celastrus paniculatus and memantine on alcohol preference and decision impairment in alcohol-dependent mice. Methods: In part 1, the effect of both the study drugs on alcohol consumption was studied using intermittent access model in 70 male C57BL6 mice. In part 2, effect of drugs on decision making was studied using the rodent version of Iowa gambling task. Mice were divided in seven study groups: Group 1-3: Celastrus paniculatus (140, 280, and 560 mg/kg), Group 4: memantine (25 mg/kg), Group 5: vehicle control 1 (Milk), Group 6: vehicle control 2 (normal saline) and Group 7: naltrexone(1mg/kg). Results: Percentage alcohol preference was lower in test groups i.e., Celastrus paniculatus at medium (40.90±15.18%) and high doses (31.79±7.46%) vs. milk (82.74±8.53%; p<0.05); and in memantine group (36.28±10.99%) vs. normal saline (83.27±5.51%; p<0.05). The results were not significantly different to Naltrexone (19.70±6.90%). Percentage preference to disadvantageous arms was also lower in Celastrus paniculatus, at medium (50.52±1.92%) and high doses (48.11±2.43%) compared to milk (54.47±2.73%; p<0.05) and memantine (47.45±1.67%) compared to normal saline (54.00±2.73%; p<0.05), indicating better decision-making ability in the test groups. The findings were comparable to Naltrexone group (45.43±2.52%). Conclusions: These results indicate that Celastrus paniculatus and memantine reduce alcohol consumption and improve decision making in alcohol-dependent mice.

Celastrus paniculatus oil ameliorates NF-KB mediated neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity in the scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment rat model.

Traditionally, Celastrus paniculatus Willd. (CP) oil has been utilized as a tranquilizer and memory enhancer. The present study investigated the neuropharmacological activity and efficacy of CP oil in ameliorating scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment in rats. Cognitive deficiency was induced in rats by administration of scopolamine (2mg/kg intraperitoneal injection) for a period of 15 days. Donepezil served as a reference drug and CP oil was tested as both preventive and curative treatments. Animals' behaviour was assessed through the Morris water maze (MWM), novel object preference (NOR), and conditioned avoidance (CA) tests. Oxidative stress parameters, bioamine concentration (dopamine, noradrenaline, and 5-hydroxytryptamine), nerve growth factor (NGF), interleukin-6 (IL-6), nuclear factor kappa B (NF-кB), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNFα) were estimated. Synaptophysin immunohistochemistry was performed. Our results showed that CP oil ameliorated behavioural deficits. It reduced latency to find a hidden platform in MWM. Reduced novel object exploration time and discrimination index (p < 0.05) in the NOR. Reduced step-down latency and normalized conditioned avoidance response (p < 0.001) in the CA test. CP oil increased dopamine, serotonin, norepinephrine, superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione, and catalase levels. It decreased malondialdehyde (MDA), acetylcholinesterase activity, IL-6, NF-кB (P < 0.001), TNFα, and NGF levels. Treatment showed approximate typical reactivity to synaptophysin. Our data is suggestive that CP oil treatment improves behavioural test outcomes, increases biogenic amine concentration, and decreases acetylcholinesterase activity, and neuroinflammatory biomarkers. It also restores synaptic plasticity. It thus improves cognitive functions against scopolamine-induced amnesia in rats by improving cholinergic function.