PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF OXYSTELMA ESCULENTUM EXTRACT ON ALZHEIMERS DISEASE IN MICE

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by memory impairment and cognitive decline. In this study, the anti-Alzheimer’s potential of Oxystelma esculentum R.Br. was investigated using in vitro and in vivo models. Sequential extraction of the aerial parts of the plant was performed using hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, and ethanol. Phytochemical analysis revealed that the ethanolic extract contained glycosides, flavonoids, phytosterols, alkaloids, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds, indicating its rich bioactive profile. The acetylcholinesterase inhibition assay demonstrated significant in vitro activity, with the ethanolic extract showing the lowest IC50 value (38.54 µg/mL) compared to other extracts, suggesting potential to enhance cholinergic neurotransmission. Acute toxicity studies in Swiss albino mice indicated the ethanolic extract was safe up to 2000 mg/kg body weight, with no mortality or significant behavioral changes observed. In vivo evaluation using scopolamine-induced amnesia in mice demonstrated that oral administration of ethanolic extract (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly improved memory and learning, as evidenced by Y-maze, open-field, and traction tests. Biochemical assessments revealed a reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) levels and enhancement of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and glutathione, indicating a protective effect against oxidative stress. The findings suggest that the ethanolic extract of O. esculentum exhibits neuroprotective activity and may ameliorate cognitive deficits, potentially through cholinesterase inhibition and antioxidant mechanisms. These results support the traditional use of the plant in managing memory disorders and highlight its potential as a source of therapeutic agents for Alzheimer’s disease. Keywords Oxystelma esculentum, Alzheimer’s disease, Acetylcholinesterase inhibition, Phytochemicals, Ethanol extract, Neuroprotection, Oxidative stress, Scopolamine-induced amnesia, Memory enhancement, Antioxidant enzymes