Alpha-pinene improves spatial memory in Alzheimer's disease model rats

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that leads to memory impairment. Studies have shown that the deposition of beta-amyloid (Aβ) peptide in the brain plays an important role in the onset and progression of AD. Alpha-pinene is a type of terpene found in various plants such as pine and rosemary. Alpha-pinene can prevent oxidative stress and inflammation caused by ischemia. We studied the effect of alpha-pinene on the spatial memory of AD model rats. Adult male rats were divided into ۴ groups (۱۰ rats in each group): control, alpha-pinene, AD, and AD-alpha pinene. After intra-hippocampal injection of Aβ۱-۴۲, rats received alpha-pinene (۵۰ mg/kg) for ۱۴ consecutive days, and then, spatial learning and memory of the animals were investigated using Morris water maze. The results were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance and P <۰.۰۵ was considered as a significant level. The results showed that Aβ increased the time and distance spent to reach the hidden platform compared to animals in the control group (P < ۰.۰۵). These animals also swam less time in the target quadrant in the probe test (P < ۰.۰۱). Alpha-pinene prevented these behavioral changes in AD model rats. It is concluded that alpha-pinene can improve spatial learning and memory in animals receiving Aβ and therefore may be effective in the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

کلیدواژه ها:

Alpha-pinene ، Beta amyloid ، Hippocampus ، Morris water maze