Polyherbal formulation mitigates age-associated cognitive deficits in rats

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pharmacology
• Gerontology

Background:

• Age-related cognitive decline is linked to oxidative stress.
• Herbal formulations are explored for mitigating age-associated cognitive impairments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of polyherbal extracts on cognitive functions in aged rats.
• To compare cognitive performance and neurochemical markers between aged and young adult rats.

Main Methods:

• Cognitive functions assessed using elevated plus maze, Morris water maze (MWM), and novel object recognition test (NORT).
• Biochemical assays, LC-MS/MS, ELISA, and immunofluorescence used to measure antioxidant enzymes, acetylcholinesterase (AChE), neurotransmitters, cytokines, and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF).

Main Results:

• Polyherbal extracts showed improved learning and memory in aged rats.
• Aged rats exhibited lower antioxidant enzymes and AChE levels, and altered neurotransmitters, cytokines, and BDNF.
• These altered levels were reversed in rats treated with polyherbal extracts.

Conclusions:

• Polyherbal formulation demonstrates memory-enhancing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects.
• This Indian polyherbal formulation may help delay or reduce age-associated cognitive impairments.