Neuroprotective Effect of Pterocarpus Marsupium on Haloperidol Induced Catalepsy in Experimental Animal

The present study investigated the neuroprotective effect of ethanolic extract of Pterocarpus marsupium (EEPM) on haloperidol-induced catalepsy in experimental animals. Phytochemical screening of EEPM revealed the presence of carbohydrates, glycosides, phenols, phytosterols, saponins, tannins, and flavonoids. Male albino mice were divided into six groups (n=6) and subjected to various drug treatments for 21 days. Catalepsy was induced by administering haloperidol (1 mg/kg, i.p.) and assessed using the bar test and actophotometer. EEPM was administered orally at doses of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, 30 minutes prior to haloperidol. The standard group received levodopa (20 mg/kg) with haloperidol. Behavioral tests were performed on the 7th, 14th, and 21st day of dosing. EEPM significantly attenuated haloperidol-induced catalepsy in a dose-dependent manner, with the highest dose (400 mg/kg) producing a statistically significant improvement in activity counts by day 21. The neuroprotective effect of EEPM may be attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds, including flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which are potent antioxidants. The results suggest that EEPM possesses neuroprotective and anti-cataleptic properties, potentially due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Further research is needed to elucidate the molecular mechanism of EEPM in neuroprotection and to isolate the individual constituents responsible for its therapeutic potential in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.