Ferulago angulata Extract Protects against Beta-amyloid-induced Memory Impairment Through Modulation of Monoaminoxidase Enzymes in the Rat’s Hippocampus

Abstract

Ferulago angulata, a medicinal plant of the Apiaceae family, is known for its antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and neuroprotective effects. This study investigated the protective potential of F. angulata total extract against memory impairment induced by amyloid β-peptide (Aβ25–35) in rats. Aβ25–35 was bilaterally administered into the CA1 region of the hippocampus in male Wistar rats for four consecutive days. Starting from the first surgery day, rats received oral treatment with F. angulata extract (400 mg/kg) or Rivastigmine (1.5 mg/kg) for 16 consecutive days. Morris water maze tests conducted from days 14 to 17 evaluated the learning and memory performance, followed by biochemical and molecular assays on isolated hippocampi. F. angulata extract significantly reversed Aβ-induced deficits in learning and memory. In the Aβ group, monoamine oxidase A and B enzyme activities and gene expression increased, along with elevated acetylcholinesterase gene expression but decreased enzyme activity compared to the control group. Treatment with F. angulata extract mitigated all these abnormalities. Safety assessments revealed no alterations in blood biochemistry or histology following F. angulata extract treatment. In conclusion, our findings suggest that F. angulata extract possesses neuroprotective properties, and ameliorates Aβ-induced memory deficits by modulating monoamine oxidase enzyme activity and acetylcholinesterase levels without significant adverse effects. Thus, this safe herbal extract shows promise for further exploration in Alzheimer’s disease research and potential therapeutic interventions.