Macaranga peltata Alleviates Neuropsychiatric Disorders in Mouse Model and Computational Study

Area of Science:

• Pharmacology
• Neuroscience
• Natural Products Chemistry

Background:

• Macaranga peltata is a plant with traditional medicinal uses.
• Understanding its neuropharmacological and analgesic properties can lead to new therapeutic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the neuropharmacological and analgesic effects of Macaranga peltata leaf extract (MEMPL).
• To identify potential bioactive compounds using computational modeling.

Main Methods:

• Phytochemical and GC-MS analyses were performed.
• Rodent models were used to assess anxiolytic, antidepressant-like, and analgesic activities.
• Computational screening was employed to identify bioactive compounds.

Main Results:

• MEMPL exhibited anxiolytic and central nervous system depressant effects.
• The extract showed modest antidepressant-like activity and significant analgesic effects, potentially through prostaglandin inhibition.
• Computational analysis identified 2-hydroxy-6-methylbenzaldehyde as a key compound.

Conclusions:

• Macaranga peltata leaf extract possesses broad neuropharmacological and analgesic potential.
• The findings support the exploration of MEMPL for therapeutic applications.
• Further studies are warranted to elucidate mechanisms and optimize dosage.