S-(+)-Carvone, a Monoterpene with Potential Anti-Neurodegenerative Activity—In Vitro, In Vivo and Ex Vivo Studies

Carvone, a natural monoterpene, has been identified in various plants, giving them a characteristic scent. Enantiomers (<i>R</i>-(-) and <i>S</i>-(+)) reveal specific biological activities that are successfully used in traditional medicine for their antifungal, antibacterial, antiparasitic, and anti-influenza properties. The presented paper is based on <i>S</i>-(+)-carvone, characterized by a specific caraway scent, which revealed rich biological activities both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the aim of the study was to evaluate the potential anti-neurodegenerative activity of <i>S</i>-(+)-carvone, including in vitro experiments (butyrylcholinesterase inhibitory, neuro- and hepatotoxicity as well as neuro- and hepatoprotective activity), in vivo (memory acquisition, locomotor activity), and ex vivo (determination of <i>S</i>-(+)-carvone's level in tissues collected from mice). Results revealed the multidirectional character of <i>S</i>-(+)-carvone. It has been shown that <i>S</i>-(+)-carvone is capable of butyrylcholinesterase inhibition (40% for 0.025 mg applied onto the plate), and neuroprotection and hepatoprotection at selective concentrations against reactive oxygen species generation and lipid peroxidation along with non-hepatotoxicity character. Additionally, multiple-dose administration of the monoterpene at a dose of 100 mg/kg had a positive influence on memory acquisition. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis of the plasma and the brain showed that <i>S</i>-(+)-carvone can cross the blood-brain barrier and accumulate in the hippocampus (0.217 µg/mg of tissue), a crucial part of the brain associated with cognition and mental functions.