Effects of Suanzaoren on Brain-Related Enzymes and Serum Biochemical Indicators in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

To investigate the effects of Suanzaoren solution on serum and brain biochemical indicators in an aluminum toxicity-induced Alzheimer's disease (AD) mouse model. The aluminum toxicity-induced AD mouse model was established using maltol aluminum solution. Sixty SPF-grade male and female mice were randomly divided into four groups: normal group, model group, treatment group 1 (high-dose group), and treatment group 2 (low-dose group) [5]. Except for the normal group, all other groups received daily intraperitoneal injections of 30 mmol/L maltol aluminum solution (0.3 mL/mouse) for 60 consecutive days [5]. From day 31 onward, treatment group 1 was orally administered Suanzaoren solution (0.3 mL/mouse), while treatment group 2 received a 1:2 diluted Suanzaoren solution (Suanzaoren solution: distilled water = 1:2). The normal and model groups were given equal volumes of saline via gavage until the end of the experiment (day 60). Memory ability changes were assessed using the Morris water maze test during the experimental period. After sacrifice, serum triglycerides (TG), total cholesterol (TC), total protein (TP), and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels were measured. Brain tissues were homogenized in pH 7.4 phosphate buffer (0.01 mmol/L) to prepare 10% (w/v) homogenates, and enzymatic activities of α-secretase, β-secretase, γ-secretase, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) were determined. Statistical analysis was performed [7]. Intraperitoneal injection of maltol aluminum solution successfully established an AD mouse model, characterized by elevated β-secretase activity and reduced α-secretase activity. Post-treatment with Suanzaoren solution significantly altered serum TG, TC, TP, and BUN levels, decreased β-secretase and AChE activities, and increased α-secretase activity, suggesting potential therapeutic effects against AD. Suanzaoren solution may serve as a promising therapeutic strategy for AD by regulating the balance of β-/α-secretase and modulating cholinergic system function.