The Neuroprotective Efficacy of *Musa acuminata* Colla Flower Extract in a Scopolamine-Induced Rat Model of Alzheimer's Disease
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Abstract
Introduction: Background: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by cognitive decline, cholinergic deficit, and oxidative stress. Current treatments offer limited symptomatic relief, necessitating the exploration of alternative therapies. *Musa acuminata* Colla (MAC) possesses diverse phytoconstituents with documented antioxidant and neuroprotective properties.
Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the neuroprotective potential of the ethanolic extract of MAC flowers (MACEE) against scopolamine-induced AD in a rat model.
Methods: Thirty-six female Wistar rats were divided into six groups (n=6): Normal control, Scopolamine (1 mg/kg i.p.), Scopolamine + MACEE (low, medium, high doses), and Scopolamine + Donepezil (standard). Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) and Radial Arm Maze (RAM). Biochemical parameters (acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity, glutathione (GSH) levels) and histopathological changes in the hippocampus were evaluated.
Results: Scopolamine administration significantly impaired cognitive function, increased AChE activity, decreased GSH levels, and induced neuronal damage. MACEE treatment, particularly at medium (300 mg/kg) and high (400 mg/kg) doses, dose-dependently reversed these effects. MACEE significantly improved escape latency in the MWM and increased correct entries in the RAM, reduced AChE activity, restored GSH levels, and ameliorated hippocampal neuronal damage, with efficacy comparable to Donepezil.
Conclusions: The findings demonstrate that MACEE exerts significant neuroprotective effects against scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment, likely mediated through cholinesterase inhibition, antioxidant activity, and preservation of neuronal integrity. *Musa acuminata* Colla flower extract presents a promising multifunctional therapeutic candidate for Alzheimer's disease.