Abstract :
MEC-01 is a phytomedicine composed with C. pluricaulis, B.
monnieri, C. asiatica, A. racemosus, N. jatamansi and Withania
somnifera. The aim of the present study was to find out
underlying mechanism of MEC-01 on cognitive behavioral pattern
in experimental animals. The total phenolics content, DPPH
radical scavenging, brain lipid peroxidation and acetylcholine
esterase in inhibitory actions of MEC-01 was studied in in vitro
methods. Cognitive functions were assessed by passive avoidance
and Morris water maze tests in normal and scopolamine induced
memory impaired mice. The findings revealed that MEC-01 has
enriched in phenolic compounds, inhibited free radicals scavenge,
exerted protective actions against brain lipid peroxidation and
inhibited central acetylcholine esterase enzyme activity. MEC has
no lethality up to the oral single dose of 2000 mg/kg in mice.
Moreover, MEC-01 exhibited improvement in retention of
learning in normal and cognitive deficit animals. The results
indicate MEC-01 can facilitate learning and memory and
possesses significant antidementic properties that may be
mediated via acetylcholine esterase attenuating neuronal
functions.
Keyword :
Antioxidant, Cognition, Dementia, Acetylcholine esterase, Phytomedicine.