Nodakenin Exhibits Anxiolytic-like and Anti-depressant-like Effects in the Experimental Mice Models

Background Anxiety and depression are among the most widespread mental health conditions worldwide, impacting millions and imposing a considerable burden on individuals and healthcare systems. Objectives The present research work was dedicated to examining the therapeutic values of nodakenin against anxiolytic and depressive-like conditions in an experimental mice model. Materials and Methods The experimental Swiss mice were administered 25 and 50 mg/kg of nodakenin and/or 20 mg/kg of imipramine, a standard anti-depressive drug. Various behavioral examinations, such as forced swimming, tail suspension, open field test, elevated plus-maze, and light and dark exploration tests, were performed to investigate the anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties of the nodakenin. Furthermore, the activity of monoamine oxidase-A (MAO-A) was assessed in the brain tissues of the experimental mice using a test kit. Results The present results indicated that nodakenin treatment reduced the immobility period, elevated the swimming duration in the forced swimming test, and reduced the immobility period in the tail immersion test. The nodakenin treatment considerably increased the exploratory behavior of the experimental mice. The results of the elevated plus maze test and light–dark box tests indicated the anti-depressant and anxiolytic properties of nodakenin in experimental mice. Furthermore, the nodakenin treatment also inhibited the MAO-A enzyme activity in the brain tissues of the experimental mice. Conclusion The current research demonstrates that the nodakenin treatment exhibits anxiolytic and anti-depressant properties in murine models. The present findings indicate the therapeutic potential of nodakenin as an alternate treatment for comorbid anxiety and depression conditions.