Enhancement of cognitive benefits and anxiolytic effects of scoparone (6,7-dimethoxycoumarin) in a zebrafish (Danio rerio) model of scopolamine-induced anxiety and memory impairment

Scoparone (6,7-dimethoxycoumarin) is a natural coumarin found especially in plants of the genus Scoparia (Asteraceae) and has been studied in the context of traditional Chinese medicine. Scoparone is supposed to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potentially neuroprotective properties, which could make this coumarin a possible candidate for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. In this study, the impact of scoparone (3 μg/L and 6 μg/L) on cognitive impairment and oxidative stress in a zebrafish ( Danio rerio ) model affected by scopolamine (100 μM) was assessed. Zebrafish behavior was investigated using the novel tank diving test, the novel approach test, the Y-maze test, and the novel object recognition test. Also, the activity of acetylcholinesterase and the level of oxidative stress in the brain were evaluated. In addition, in silico prediction of the pharmacokinetic properties of scopolamine, galantamine, and scoparone was performed. The obtained results showed that scoparone can improve memory performance, decrease scopolamine-induced anxiety in behavioral tests, reduce oxidative stress at the brain level, and decrease acetylcholinesterase activity. These results highlighted the potential of using scoparone in ameliorating memory deficits and reducing brain oxidative stress associated with the development of cognitive disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.