Monnieri Extract Research Articles

Bacopa monnieri confers neuroprotection by influencing signaling pathways associated with interleukin 4, 13 and extracellular matrix organization in Alzheimer's disease: A proteomics-based perspective

Alzheimer's disease, a prevalent neurodegenerative disorder in the elderly, is characterized by the accumulation of senile plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, triggering oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and neuronal apoptosis. Current therapies focus on symptomatic treatment rather than targeting the underlying disease-modifying molecular mechanisms and are often associated with significant side effects. Bacopa monnieri, a traditional Indian herb with nootropic properties, has shown promise in neurological disorder treatment from ancient times. However, its mechanisms of action in Alzheimer's disease remain elusive. In this study, a cellular model for Alzheimer's disease was created by treating differentiated IMR-32 cells with beta-amyloid, 1–42 peptide (Aβ42). Additionally, a recovery model was established through co-treatment with Bacopa monnieri to explore its protective mechanism. Co-treatment with Bacopa monnieri extract recovered Aβ42 induced damage as evidenced by the decreased apoptosis and reduced reactive oxygen species production. Mass spectrometry-based quantitative proteomic analysis identified 21,674 peptides, corresponding to 3626 proteins from the Alzheimer's disease model. The proteins dysregulated by Aβ42 were implicated in cellular functions, such as negative regulation of cell proliferation and microtubule cytoskeleton organization. The enriched pathways include extracellular matrix organization and interleukin-4 and interleukin-13 signaling. Bacopa monnieri co-treatment showed remarkable restoration of Aβ42 altered proteins, including FOSL1, and TDO2. The protein-protein interaction network analysis of Bacopa monnieri restored proteins identified the hub gene involved in Alzheimer's disease. The findings from this study may open up new avenues for creating innovative therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer's disease.

Differential Alterations in the Expression of AMPA Receptor and Its Trafficking Proteins in the Hippocampus Are Associated with Recognition Memory Impairment in the Rotenone-Parkinson's Disease Mouse Model: Neuroprotective Role of Bacopa monnieri Extract CDRI 08.

Parkinson's disease (PD), an age-associated neurodegenerative motor disorder, is associated with dementia and cognitive decline. However, the precise molecular insight into PD-induced cognitive decline is not fully understood. Here, we have investigated the possible alterations in the expression of glutamate receptor and its trafficking/scaffolding/regulatory proteins underlying the memory formation and neuroprotective effects of a specialized Bacopa monnieri extract, CDRI-08 (BME) in the hippocampus of the rotenone-induced PD mouse model. Our Western blotting and qRT-PCR data reveal that the PD-induced recognition memory decline is associated with significant upregulation of the AMPA receptor subunit GluR1 and downregulation of GluR2 subunit genes in the hippocampus of rotenone-affected mice as compared to the vehicle control. Further, expressions of thetrafficking proteins are significantly upregulated in the hippocampus of rotenone-affected mice compared to the vehicle control. Our results also reveal that the above alterations in the hippocampus are associated with similar expression patterns of total CREB, pCREB, and BDNF. BME (CDRI-08, 200mg/kg BW) reverses the expression of AMPA receptor subunits, their trafficking proteins differentially, and the transcriptional modulatory proteins depending on whether the BME treatment was given before or after the rotenone treatment. Our data suggest that expression of the above genes is significantly reversed in the BME pre-treated mice subjected to rotenone treatment towards their levels in the control mice compared to its treatment after rotenone administration. Our results provide the possible molecular basis underlying the rotenone-induced recognition memory decline, conditions mimicking the PD symptoms in mouse model and neuroprotective action of bacoside A and bacoside B (58%)-enriched Bacopa monnieri extract (BME) in the hippocampus.

Antiasthamatic Activity of Betulinic Acid as a Current Bioactive Compound in an Experimental Model

aims: The purpose of this study was to assess BA's effectiveness in treating bronchial asthma and to use molecular docking to find BA's binding energy with β-adrenoceptor. background: The natural triterpenoid molecule betulinic acid (BA) has many biological and therapeutic uses, one of which is the relief of asthma symptoms. objective: The purpose of this study was to assess BA's effectiveness in treating bronchial asthma and to use molecular docking to find BA's binding energy with β-adrenoceptor. method: Methods: The extraction technique involved the use of ethanol as a solvent and the herb Bacopa monnieri. Budesenoid was used as a standard drug. AutoDock vina in PyRx 0.8 was used for the molecular docking investigation. An acute toxicity examination was conducted according to OECD guideline 425. A guinea pig model of asthma called anaphylactic microshock was employed to ascertain the antiasthmatic efficacy of the medication under investigation. Antiasthmatic activity was performed by dividing the animals into four groups each containing six animals. Group 1 was the control group received only vehicle. Group 2 was the standard group received budesenoid. Group 3 was the test group received B. monnieri extract. Group 4 was the test group received betulinic acid (BA). result: Results: In terms of binding affinity, BA has a value of -7.45 kcal/mol. In line with earlier findings, molecular docking showed that BA bound to the hydrophobic cavity of LOX-5, and the formation of hydrogen bonds altered the micro-environment and structure of LOX-5. This resulted in a reduction in enzyme activity. The mean pre-convulsion time for Drug-1 was 506.66 in comparison to the control group as observed in guinea pig model of asthma. conclusion: Conclusion: It may be a good analytical approach to test BA or BA derivatives with a stronger antiasthmatic profile with the help of computed properties. BA was found effective in reducing anaphylaxis in animal model, thus, it may be useful against asthma. other: Conclusion: It may be a good analytical approach to test BA or BA derivatives with a stronger antiasthmatic profile with the help of computed properties. BA was found effective in reducing anaphylaxis in animal model, thus, it may be useful against asthma.

Therapeutic Efficacy of <i>Bacopa monnieri</i> against Aflatoxin B<Sub>1</sub> Induced Toxicity in Rats

Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1), the most frequently discovered aflatoxin in tainted foods and feed, is considered the most important risk factor. Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) is a well-known perennial, creeping herb in the Indian Ayurvedic system. Thus, the present study was designed to evaluate the protective efficacy of Brahmi against liver damage induced by Aflatoxin B1. The whole study was conducted in two experiments. The first experiment used phytochemical estimation of BM (Bacopa monnieri). In the second experiment, animals were randomly divided into six groups with six animals in each group. Group 1 served as the control. Group 2 served as per se and received the highest dose of therapy which was 40 mg/kg for 13 days, post orally. Group 3 received AFB1 (200 μg/kg/day) for 13 days, orally Groups 4 to 6 received different doses of Brahmi (20, 30, 40 mg/kg/day PO) for 3 consecutive days after 10 days of exposure to AFB1. All animals were sacrificed after 24 hr of the last treatment. DPPH free radical scavenging activity of the plant was reported in terms of IC50 (45.30 ± 2.52 μg/ml). The presence of flavonoids and protein in the plant was reported in 29.63 ± 1.63 μg Rutin /mg, and 59.72 ± 3.30 μg BSA / mg. Acute studies showed increased lipid peroxidation and a decline in antioxidant status. Alterations in the Liver Function Test (LFT) were also observed. Oral treatment with 20-40 mg/kg Brahmi showed remarkable protection against the toxic effects of Aflatoxin B1. Biochemical results of this study demonstrate that Bacopa monnieri extract possesses protective potential against AFB1-induced hepatotoxicity due to the presence of several bioactive phytochemicals. From this study, we can conclude that treating Bacopa monnieri can protect against AFB1 challenge rats.

Enhanced Bioavailability and Efficacy of Bacopa Extract and Ebelin Lactone: Preparation and Biological Evaluation

Although Bacopa monnieri extract is well known for its cognitive and memory support, it has received minimal attention in pharmacy due to its terrible palatability and poor bioavailability. This study aimed to develop an improved, cost-effective, and eco-friendly process for the preparation of stable and highly bioavailable non-hygroscopic bacosides enriched fraction in such a manner that it contains a specific amount of Bacoside A3 and jujubogenin, and the aglycone derivative (Ebelin lactone). We prepared two compositions 1 and 2 having Bacoside A3 and jujubogenin: Ebelin lactone ratios 1:1 and 3:1 respectively. The efficacy of these herbal compositions was evaluated independently in comparison to the bioactivity of bacosides (20%), bacosides (50%), and Ebelin lactone. This study also aimed to find a wide range of potential activities of formulated composition, including acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor activity, anti-oxidant activity, cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitor activity, and anti-cancer activity. We noted that both compositions worked better than parent Bacopa for biological activity assays but the herbal Bacopa Composition 1 is more potent than Composition 2. Hence, further research on Composition 1 should be explored for its potential to treat conditions such as Alzheimer's and various cancer diseases.

Investigating Bacopa monnieri L. Therapeutic Potential for the Treatment of Neurological Diseases.

The popular perennial creeping plant known as Bacopa monnieri (also known as Brahmi) is being utilized in the Indian Ayurvedic medicine practice. It has a variety of bioactive phytoconstituents that have been used therapeutically to treat a number of serious illnesses. Ancient Vedic scholars used this herb because of its pharmacological effects, particularly as a nerve booster and nootropic supporter. However, it is vital to comprehend the active phytochemical components of Bacopa monnieri extract (BME) and their molecular mechanisms in order to better grasp the effect of BME on neurological illnesses and diseases. Understanding its active phytochemical constituents and their molecular processes is essential. Numerous clinical investigations indicated that BME may have neuroprotective benefits, so it is worthwhile to re-evaluate this wellknown plant. Here, we focused on neurological problems as we examined the pharmacological and phytochemical characteristics of BME. For their effective usage in neuroprotection and cognition, many clinical concerns and the synergistic potential of Bacopa extract have been investigated. Alzheimer's disease is a neurological condition caused by the production of reactive oxygen species, which also causes amyloid-beta (Aβ) and tau protein aggregation and increases neuro-inflammation and neurotoxicity. Our review offers a more indepth molecular understanding of the neuroprotective functions of BME, which can also be connected to its therapeutic management of neurological illnesses and cognitive-improving effects.

Evaluating the effects of Bacopa monnieri on cognitive performance and sleep quality of patients with mild cognitive impairment: A triple-blinded, randomized, placebo-controlled trial

IntroductionMild cognitive impairment is the middle level of natural cognitive impairment during primary steps of dementia. There are a few studies about improving the cognitive performance and sleep quality in patients with a limited dementia. So, this study was conducted to evaluate the effects of Bacopa monnieri on cognitive performance and sleep quality of patients with mild cognitive impairment. Materials and methodsIn this study, 62 patients with mild cognitive impairment were categorized into two groups of control and intervention. The intervention group received one pill of 160 mg Bacopa monnieri extract in 2 months, and the control group received a pill containing starch powder. The cognitive impairment and sleep quality was assessed using a questionnaire containing demographic information, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and the Pittsburg Sleep Quality Index in three time-points of before the study, one months after the intervention and 2 months after the intervention (the end of study). ResultsThe results showed no statistically significant difference between two groups in all three time-points in overall cognitive performance score and its 6 parameters (P > 0.05). While in the field of attention at the end of the first month (P = 0.033) and the end of the second month (P = 0.004), it was significant difference between the study groups. Also, in the field of verbal fluency at the end of the second month, this difference was significant (P = 0.003). The cognitive performance overall score showed no significant difference between two groups in first (P = 0.939) and second time-points (P = 0.661), although it was significant at third time-point (P = 0.029). There was no statistically significant difference between two groups in all time-points for sleep quality overall score (P > 0.05). ConclusionThe results showed that Bacopa monnieri can improve the cognitive performance overall score and some of its parameters, but it had no effect on sleep quality.

Assessment of the mechanistic role of an Indian traditionally used ayurvedic herb Bacopa monnieri (L.)Wettst. for ameliorating oxidative stress in neuronal cells

Ethnopharmacological relevanceThis study has important ethnopharmacological implications since it systematically investigated the therapeutic potential of Bacopa monnieri(L.) Wettst. (Brahmi) in treating neurological disorders characterized by oxidative stress—a growing issue in the aging population. Bacopa monnieri, which is strongly rooted in Ayurveda, has long been recognized for its neuroprotective and cognitive advantages. The study goes beyond conventional wisdom by delving into the molecular complexities of Bacopa monnieri, particularly its active ingredient, Bacoside-A, in countering oxidative stress. The study adds to the ethnopharmacological foundation for using this herbal remedy in the context of neurodegenerative disorders by unravelling the scientific underpinnings of Bacopa monnieri's effectiveness, particularly at the molecular level, against brain damage and related conditions influenced by oxidative stress. This dual approach, which bridges traditional wisdom and modern investigation, highlights Bacopa monnieri's potential as a helpful natural remedy for oxidative stress-related neurological diseases. Aim of the studyThe aim of this study is to investigate the detailed molecular mechanism of action (in vitro, in silico and in vivo) of Bacopa monnieri (L.) Wettst. methanolic extract and its active compound, Bacoside-A, against oxidative stress in neurodegenerative disorders. Materials and methodsROS generation activity, mitochondrial membrane potential, calcium deposition and apoptosis were studied through DCFDA, Rhodamine-123, FURA-2 AM and AO/EtBr staining respectively. In silico study to check the effect of Bacoside-A on the Nrf-2 and Keap1 axis was performed through molecular docking study and validated experimentally through immunofluorescence co-localization study. In vivo antioxidant activity of Bacopa monnieri extract was assessed by screening the oxidative stress markers and stress-inducing hormone levels as well as through histopathological analysis of tissues. ResultsThe key outcome of this study is that the methanolic extract of Bacopa monnieri (BME) and its active component, Bacoside-A, protect against oxidative stress in neurodegenerative diseases. At 100 and 20 μg/ml, BME and Bacoside-A respectively quenched ROS, preserved mitochondrial membrane potential, decreased calcium deposition, and inhibited HT-22 mouse hippocampus cell death. BME and Bacoside-A regulated the Keap1 and Nrf-2 axis and their downstream antioxidant enzyme-specific genes to modify cellular antioxidant machinery. In vivo experiments utilizing rats subjected to restrained stress indicated that pre-treatment with BME (50 mg/kg) downregulated oxidative stress markers and stress-inducing hormones, and histological staining demonstrated that BME protected the neuronal cells of the Cornu Ammonis (CA1) area in the hippocampus. ConclusionsOverall, the study suggests that Bacopa monnieri(L.) Wettst. has significant potential as a natural remedy for neurodegenerative disorders, and its active compounds could be developed as new drugs for the prevention and treatment of oxidative stress-related diseases.

Green Synthesis of Bacopa monnieri-Mediated Magnesium Oxide Nanoparticles and Analysis of Their Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Cytotoxic Properties.

Background The management of aggressive forms of periodontal disease has become an issue of concern due to the emergence of bacterial resistance. Nanoparticles (NPs) have emerged as a potential therapeutic agent with a multitude of biological functions. The green synthesis of these NPs is more eco-friendly than conventional methods. The present study aimed at the green synthesis of magnesium oxide nanoparticles using Bacopa monnieri (bMgO NPs) and its antibacterial, antioxidant, and cytotoxic analysis. Materials and methods Magnesium oxide NPs were green synthesized using B. monnieri extract using a wet chemical method. The resultant bMgO NPs were assessed for antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli. Antioxidant activity was assessed using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) assay and the hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) assay. Cytotoxicity was assessed using zebrafish viability on treatment with bMgO NPs. Results Compared to the antibiotic standard, the green synthesized bMgO NPs showed good antibacterial properties against S. aureus and E. coli. It also showed excellent antioxidant activity and biocompatibility. Conclusion The bMgO NPs have great potential as a local drug delivery agent and should be further explored for their antibacterial and antioxidant properties in vivo.

Exploring the Neutraceutical Effects of Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) in Agriculture: Potential Applications and Benefits

Brahmi is a well proven herb of many medicinal properties. All the parts of the plant can be used as medicine. Brahmi leaves are a powerhouse of valuable alkaloids and triterpene saponins that can stimulate brain chemicals for sharper thinking, memory and learning.. Understanding the bioactive chemicals present in herbal plants, their capacity to strengthen the immune system, and the safety of the end products is necessary for the processing of brahmi. It has been observed that the extracts of brahmi plants can be a helpful component in the creation of herbal beverages that contain the phenolics as well as Vitamin C as antioxidant. Without the addition of chemicals like sweeteners, artificial flavors, or colors, they can be utilized as a base to create beverages with bioactive qualities and sufficient the organoleptic properties for the consumer to enjoy. The ayurvedic herbs have the greatest potential for benefiting the population, particularly those who live in countries where poverty and bad health are prevalent. Bacopa monniera is well known for its memory enhancing property in traditional Indian system of medicine. Cognitive-enhancing and neuromodulatory property of brahmi herbal drink, a nutraceutical product from Bacopa monniera extract. The development and use of brahmi in functional meals will benefit not only the general public’s nutritional status, but also people suffering from degenerative diseases. Brahmi can be consumed as a vegetable and the leaf powder can be dried in a dryer and stored for several months without refrigeration. The dried brahmi leaf is ground into a powder that may be added to any dish to assist boost the nutritional value of the cuisine.

Maternal stress-induced changes in adolescent and adult offspring: Neurobehavioural improvement and telomere maintenance

Maternal stress (MS) during gestation is known to increase the risk for the development of behavioural and physiological disorders and advances cellular aging. In this study, we investigated whether the supplementation of standardized Bacopa monnieri extract (CDRI-08/BME) or l-Carnosine (L-C) to the mother exposed to social stress during gestation modify the effect on their offspring's neurobehaviour, antioxidant defence gene expression, telomere length, and telomere biology. To test this, timed pregnant rats were subjected to social stress during the gestational day (GD) 16–18. A subset of stressed pregnant rats received either BME [80 mg/kg in 0.5% gum acacia (per-orally; p.o)] or L-C [1 mg/kg (p.o)] every day from GD-10 to until their pup's attained postnatal day (PND)-23. We observed that MS induced anxiety-like behaviour, altered inter-limb coordination, antioxidant defence genes [Superoxide dismutase (SOD1,2), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione peroxidase-3 (GPX3)], telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT), shelterin complex subunits (TRF1, RAP1B, POT1) protein level and shorten telomere length. Notably, supplementation of BME/L-C dampens the MS, thus the effect on neurobehaviour, antioxidant defence gene expression, and telomere biology is minimized in their offspring. Together, our results suggest that supplementation of BME/L-C during gestation dampens the MS and reduced oxidative stress-mediated changes in telomere shortening/biology and associated neurobehaviour in offspring born following MS.

Effect of Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri) in the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease from Ayurvedic Perspective - A Systematic Review

Objectives: Treatment of Alzheimer’s disease is the worldwide problem as it is having major impact on the memory. Ayurveda science describes Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri) as memory enhancing drug which can improve the memory power in the Alzheimer’s disease. Data Sources: Classical textbooks and published research studies were searched in the context of use of Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri) in the Alzheimer’s disease. Online search engines namely J gate, Google scholar, PubMed, DHARA online and AYUSH research portal were used for data mining of published research works. Review Methods: References and studies including the effect of Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri) in the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease were reviewed and reported according to the PRISMA guidelines. We include randomized controlled trials with mild cognitive impairment in Alzheimer’s disease which involves Bacopa Monnieri, its extract or its active ingredients. Results and Discussion: 5 studies found eligible for the search. Two studies used extracts of Bacopa Monnieri extracts while three studies used other drugs in combination with the Bacopa Monnieri extract. The cognitive subscale scores of the Alzheimer’s disease Assessment scale found in one study, mini mental state examination scores were found in three studies. All the studies found a significant difference in statistics. Hence, Brahmi (Bacopa Monnieri) may find to be effective in Alzheimer’s disease and its equivalent disease in Ayurveda. Conclusion: The evidence obtained from the present systematic review is of very low certainty. The evidence from 5 trials suggests that there is a very little difference between Bacopa Monnieri and a placebo or donepezil in the treatment of Alzheimer disease or mild cognitive impairment which needs to find in further future studies No major safety issues were reported in the trials included in this review.

Bilosomes as a Potential Carrier to Enhance Cognitive Effects of Bacopa monnieri Extract on Oral Administration

AbstractThe Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda employs Bacopa monnieri extract (BME) for memory enhancement. This study attempts to prepare and test a more potent formulation by incorporating BME in nanovesicles. BME-loaded liposomes and bilosomes (bile salt-stabilized liposomes) were formulated using soy phosphatidylcholine. Liposomes and bilosomes had homogeneous size distribution and an average size of 285.7 nm and 84 nm, respectively, with satisfactory zeta potential. Spherical multilamellar bilosomes and unilamellar liposomes were observed under transmission electron microscope (TEM), with BME entrapment efficiency of 85% and 45%, respectively. During a 72 h interval, bilosomes and liposomes released 78% and 65% of the loaded BME, exhibiting a biphasic release, following the Higuchi model diffusion. Both liposomes and bilosomes were stable in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. When tested on dementia-induced Swiss albino mouse models using the Y-maze apparatus, the bilosome-treated group showed significant cognition enhancement activity than those treated with liposomal vesicles. The better pharmacological effect shown by bilosomes may be attributed to better bioavailability, possibly augmented by higher entrapment efficiency, and improved vesicle integrity afforded by bile salts. Likewise, bilosomes were more stable than liposomes in simulated gastric and intestinal fluids. Taken together, innovative formulation techniques hold substantial promise for enhancing the ethnopharmacological claims of BME.

The Long-term Effect of Bacopa monnieri Extract on Spatial Learning and Memory in Rats

The Long-term Effect of Bacopa monnieri Extract on Spatial Learning and Memory in Rats

Pharmacological attributes of Bacopa monnieri extract: Current updates and clinical manifestation.

Bacopa monnieri has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, alone or in combination with other herbs, as a memory and learning enhancer, sedative, and anti-epileptic. This review aimed to highlight the health benefits of B. monnieri extracts (BME), focusing on anti-cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. We examined the clinical studies on phytochemistry and pharmacological application of BME. We further highlighted the mechanism of action of these extracts in varying types of cancer and their therapeutic implications. In addition, we investigated the underlying molecular mechanism in therapeutic interventions, toxicities, safety concerns and synergistic potential in cognition and neuroprotection. Overall, this review provides deeper insights into the therapeutic implications of Brahmi as a lead formulation for treating neurological disorders and exerting cognitive-enhancing effects.

Investigating neuroprotective roles of Bacopa monnieri extracts: Mechanistic insights and therapeutic implications

Bacopa monnieri (Brahmi) is a well-known perennial, creeping herb of the Indian Ayurveda system; it contains numerous bioactive phytoconstituents implicated in the therapeutic management of several life-threatening diseases. This herb was used by Ancient Vedic scholars due to its pharmacological effect, especially as a nerve tonic and nootropic booster. However, to better understand the roles of Bacopa monnieri extract (BME) in neurological disorders and memory-related diseases, it is necessary to understand its active phytochemical constituents and their molecular mechanisms. Several clinical studies suggested that BME have neuroprotective effects, making it worth revising a notable herb. Here we investigated the contours of BME's phytochemistry and pharmacological features, focusing on neuronal disorders. We further analyzed the underlying molecular mechanisms in therapeutic intervention. Various clinical concerns and synergistic potential of BME were explored for their effective use in cognition and neuroprotection. The generation of reactive oxygen species increases neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity and is associated with Tau and amyloid-beta (Aβ) aggregation, leading to a neurological disorder. Our findings provide deeper mechanistic insights into the neuroprotective roles of BME, which can be further implicated in the therapeutic management of neurological disorders and exerting cognitive-enhancing effects.

Bacopa monnieri extract ameliorates core autistic behavioural deficits of sodium valproate-induced autism spectrum disorder in mice, and its mechanism of action related to PTEN protein

Our previous study demonstrated the effect of Bacopa monnieri extract (BME) on behavioural deficits in sodium valproate (VPA)-induced autism spectrum disorder in mice. The present study aims to further investigate the effect of BME on neurobehaviors of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in mice and the biochemical mechanism(s) involved. Female pregnant mice were divided into control and VPA treated groups at 12-13 days of gestation (saline/sodium valproate 500 mg/kg respectively, i.p.). Control group pups of saline-treated mothers received distilled water. The VPA-treated mothers received either distilled water or BME (50 mg/kg, p.o.) after birth until 13 days later. Then, from postnatal day 14, ASD pups were orally treated with BME (50 mg/kg)/distilled water for the duration of the study. Behavioural deficits (repetitive behaviour and social behaviour deficit) were measured by a self-grooming test and a three-chamber test on postnatal days 20 and 30. On postnatal day 40, the cerebral cortex of pups was isolated for evaluation of the expression level of PTEN protein using the Western blot method. The results showed that BME (50 mg/kg, p.o.) significantly improved repetitive behaviour and social behaviour deficits in ASD mice on postnatal day 20 and 30, and also increased PTEN protein expression level in the brain of ASD mice. These results demonstrated that BME ameliorates core behaviours of autism and concurrently restores decreases in PTEN protein expression in the cerebral cortex of valproate-treated mice.

Neuroprotective role of Bacopa monnieri extract in modulating depression in an experimental rat model

BackgroundDepression is a common illness with no definite treatment. MethodsThe study involved 2 experimental periods; 45-day (P1) followed by 30-day (P2). 40 adult albino rats were randomly divided into 4 groups. Grp 1 received saline orally while Grp 2 reserpine inraperitoneally (ip) during P1 and P2. Grps 3 and 4 received reserpine during P1, followed by reserpine plus B. monnieri, and reserpine plus citalopram ip during P2, respectively. Forced swimming test (FST) was performed at beginning and end of P1 and P2. Animals were sacrificed by end of P2 and brain taken for histopathological examination and ELISA estimation of serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, BDNF, MCP-1, FAS, and Bcl-2. ResultsDuring P1, reserpine prolonged immobility time (IT) in FST in Grps 2, 3, and 4. IT was subsequently lowered in Grps 3 and 4 but remained elevated in Grp 2 by end of P2.Serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine were lowered in Grps 2, 3, and 4, but in Grps 3 and 4, levels were comparable to Grp1. BDNF and Bc1–2 were reduced in Grps 2, 3, and 4, with higher levels in Grps 3 and 4 than Grp 2. MCP-1 and FAS were elevated in Grps 2, 3, and 4, but levels were lower in Grps 3 and 4 than in Grp 2. Histopathology showed congested cerebral cortex in Grp 2 and normal cortex in other groups. LimitationsOnly adult male rats were involved and effects of co-administration of B. monnieri and citalopram were not characterized. ConclusionB. monnieri improves depression comparable to citalopram in reserpine-induced depression.

Effects of a Bacopa monnieri extract (Bacognize®) on stress, fatigue, quality of life and sleep in adults with self-reported poor sleep: A randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled study

In this 28-day, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 100 adults with self-reported poor sleep received either a placebo or a standardised Bacopa monnieri extract (150 mg twice daily). Outcome measures included the Bergen Insomnia Scale (primary outcome measure), Functional Outcomes of Sleep Questionnaire, Pittsburgh Sleep Diary, Short Form-36 Health Survey, and the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale. Changes in salivary concentrations of cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, immunoglobulin A (sIgA), α-amylase (sAA), C-reactive protein, melatonin, and the fatigue biomarker index were also assessed. Based on the Bergen Insomnia Scale, Bacopa monnieri did not improve sleep patterns more than the placebo; however, it was associated with greater improvements in emotional wellbeing, general health, and pain-related symptoms. Bacopa monnieri was also associated with greater reductions in sIgA and sAA compared to the placebo. Future clinical trials using varying doses, treatment periods, and objective outcome measures will be important to validate these findings.

Nephroprotective effect of Bacopa monnieri on gentamicin-induced nephrotoxicity in rodent models

Background: Drug-induced nephrotoxicity has been a significant cause of concern. Nephrotoxicity has been majorly implicated due to drug or toxin exposure. Bacopa monnieri commonly known, as “Brahmi,” is known to have a wide range of pharmacological principles responsible for various curative properties. Aim and Objective: The present study aims to assess the nephroprotective role of B. monnieri extract (BME) in gentamicin (GM)-induced nephrotoxic rodent model. Materials and Methods: Nephroprotective effect of the extract in doses of 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg was tested in GM-induced nephrotoxic rodent model. Mean kidney weight, urea, creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, and electrolytes were measured. Renal antioxidants were analyzed. Data were statistically analyzed. Results: Renoprotection in terms of reduced mean kidney weight, urea, creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen post-intoxication was observed maximum at dose of 200 mg/kg when compared with GM intoxicated group. Treatment with BME showed significant increase in serum sodium level and decrease in serum potassium level. Groups treated with BME showed significant increase in glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase values at 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg. Conclusion: For progressive situations, nephroprotectant can be of utility. Promising results in terms of biochemical parameters were observed, where significant protection from renal injury can be postulated.