Role of Rauwolfia serpentina in stroke induced experimental dementia

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the Role of Rauwolfia serpentina in stroke induced experimental dementia. Methods: Methanolic root extract of Rauwolfia serpentina(RS) at a dose of 10mg/kg,20mg/kg and 40mg/kg;p.o. was studied against global cerebral ischemia induced dementia by occluding both common carotid arteries. RS at a dose of 10mg/kg, 20mg/kg and 40mg/kg;p.o. were administered for 14 days before and 7 days after both common carotid arteries occlusion(BCCAO) and were continued during behavioral testing i.e. Morris water maze test and elevated plus maze test. At the end of all experiment mice brain were removed and TBARS level, SOD level and infract size were determined.Results : Occlusion of both common carotid arteries significantly increased escape latency time(ELT) during acquisition trial and decrease, time spent in target quadrant on morris water maze, an increase in escape latency time was also observed on elevated plus maze when measured after 7 days of occlusion.Furthermore, TBARS levels, SOD levels and infract size were also increased when measured after 12 days of occlusion. Administration of RS specially at a dose of 20mg/kg and 40mg/kg;p.o. significantly attenuated these alteration and show neuroprotective effect against oxidative stress, infract size and learning and memory impairment. Conclusions: These finding suggest that Rauwolfia serpentina may have a promising role as a prophylactic drug in stroke induced experimental dementia due to its neuroprotective effect. The phenolic compound like phenolic acid, flavanoids and tannins present in the plant.