Cognitive Enhancing Activity of Spirulina maxima Extract on Scopolamine-induced Memory Impairment in Mice

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the gradual loss of memory and learning abilities, making it a leading cause of dementia. Spirulina maxima (SM), a nutrient-rich microalga, is widely used as a dietary supplement due to its potential health benefits. Our previous research demonstrated the neuroprotective effects of SM extract in HT22 cells exposed to glutamate-induced toxicity. This study further investigates the cognitive-enhancing potential of SM using a mouse model of scopolamine-induced memory impairment. Spatial memory was assessed using the Morris water maze test, while the passive avoidance test evaluated learning and memory retention. Notably, SM extract significantly improved scopolamine-induced memory deficits and inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity. These findings suggest that SM extract mitigates memory impairment by modulating the acetylcholine signaling pathway. Based on these results, we propose that SM extract holds promise as a potential nutraceutical for improving memory-related disorders.