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Gao-Zi-Yao improves learning and memory function in old spontaneous hypertensive rats
Meng-Xiao Han1, Wen-Yi Jiang1, Yan Jiang1
1Department of Physiology, Medical College of Soochow University, 199 Ren-Ai Road, Dushu Lake Campus, Suzhou Industrial Park, 215123, Suzhou, People's Republic of China.
BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies
|June 1, 2022
Summary
Gao-Zi-Yao improved learning and memory in aged hypertensive rats by reducing blood pressure and inflammation. It also increased hippocampal neurons and key protein expressions related to cognitive function.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Gao-Zi-Yao is a traditional remedy with diverse therapeutic applications.
- Aging and hypertension can impair cognitive functions, particularly learning and memory.
- Spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHR) serve as a model for studying age-related cognitive decline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of Gao-Zi-Yao on learning and memory in aged spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHR).
- To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, including effects on blood pressure, inflammation, and hippocampal neuroplasticity.
Main Methods:
- Aged male SHR were administered varying doses of Gao-Zi-Yao for four weeks.
- Systolic blood pressure (SBP), heart rate, and serum inflammatory markers (IL-1β, IL-2, TNF-α) were monitored.
- Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze, with subsequent hippocampal neuron counts and Western blot analysis for key proteins (NMDAR 2B, GluR1, p-CaMK II, p-CREB).
Main Results:
- Gao-Zi-Yao treatment significantly reduced SBP and heart rate in aged SHR.
- Serum levels of nitric oxide (NO) were elevated, while inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-2, TNF-α) were suppressed.
- Morris water maze performance improved dose-dependently, accompanied by increased hippocampal neuron counts and upregulated expression of NMDAR 2B, GluR1, p-CaMK II, and p-CREB.
Conclusions:
- Gao-Zi-Yao effectively decreases SBP and enhances learning and memory in aged SHR.
- The beneficial effects are attributed to the modulation of oxidative stress, inflammation, hippocampal neurogenesis, and synaptic plasticity-related proteins.
