Evaluation of Nootropic and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Activities of Lentinula Edodes in Mice

Background: Memory is considered as the brain ability to encode, store, and recall knowledge whereas, medicinal compounds which improve memory are called as Nootropics (Smart drugs). Mushrooms have been used from ancient time as traditional medicines, however, few are screened for their nootropic activity. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the nootropic activity of Lentinula edodes mushroom in mice. Methodology: Elevated plus maze and Morris water maze tests were used for the purpose of the memory assessment. However, open field test was used to rule out the effect of the extract on the motor activity of the mice. Biochemical estimation of acetylcholinesterase was done using Ellman method. Results: In elevated plus maze test, initial transfer latency and retention transfer latency were significantly decreased in the animals treated with the Lentinula edodes extract at both the doses of 250mg/kg and 500mg/kg. Whereas, in Morris water maze, time spent in the target quadrant was significantly increased in the animals treated with the extract, however, escape latency was significantly reduced. The level of acetylcholinesterase was also significantly reduced showed the nootropic activity. Conclusion: Based on the above result it is concluded that Lentinula edodes possesses significant nootropic activity in mice.