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- Asian Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (2015) Volume 5, Issue 49
A laboratory quest on use of date fruit (Phoenix Dactylifera, L) extract in prevention of chemically induced memory deficit models in mice
Background:Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is affecting approximately 46 million people worldwide. Date fruits (Phoenix dactylifera L.) are important fruits which have been cultivated in the Middle East for over 6000 years or more. For the native arabs, dates are an integral part of food. They possess many useful properties such as antioxidant, neuroprotective, anti stress and anticholesteromic which are essential for an effective Antialzheimer drug. Hence, based on above observations we hypothesize that date fruits can offer potential benefits for the treatment/prevention of AD. Methods: Scopolamine and streptozotocin were used to induce memory loss in experimental mice. The prepared aqueous extract was analyzed for various chemical constituents by using standardized methods. Its antioxidant activity was established using DPPH free radical method. Scopolamine and streptozotocin were used to induce memory deficit. Different doses of the extract such as 100, 200 and 400 mg/kg were selected for the study. The potential of the extract in exhibiting nootropic activity was explored by using elevated plus maze in mice treated with the extract for a period of 30 days. At the end of treatment period and I hour after last dose, the transfer latency was recorded. In order to analyze the retention of this learned-task, the transfer latency was recorded again 24 h later. The effect of the extract in reversing scopolamine and streptozotocin was also carried. Results: The results of in vitro tests proved that DFE to be an antioxidant whereas in vivo study indicated DFE had nootropic activity in absence of cognitive deficit and was also successful in preventing the chemically induced memory deficits in experimental mice. The mechanism by which DFE showed these effects could be attributed to its antioxidant, neuroprotective properties, its choline content or activation of acetylcholine system in brain. Conclusions: In the light of above, it may be worthwhile to explore the potential of this fruit in the management of Alzheimer’s disease patients.
Author(s): Shalam Mohamed Hussain, Ibrahim Ali awwad, Omar khan, Mostafa Taha