Effects of Voacanga africana Stapf (Apocynaceae) leaf extract on alcohol withdrawal–related behavioral alterations in male wistar Rats: role of dopamine and serotonin pathways

Alcohol use disorders can lead to serious health issues and negatively affects relationships, work, finances, and overall quality of life. At the physiological level, consequences of alcohol abuse include liver problems and mental illness. Despite the severe impact of alcohol addiction, effective pharmacological treatments are limited. Voacanga africana Stapf is a plant used traditionally to manage addiction problems. This study aimed to evaluate the therapeutic potential against alcohol withdrawal of of the aqueous extract of Voacanga africana (V. africana ) leaves on alcohol-induced addiction in male Wistar rats Using the behavioral assays, Open Field, Elevated Plus Maze, and Forced Swimming tests, the impact of three doses of V. africana was assessed on the alcohol withdrawal symptoms. The aptitude of the addicted rats to self-medicate with the plant extract was investigated through evaluation of the brain level of dopamine, serotonin, and oxidative stress parameters. The effects of the plant extract on the ultra-structure of the nucleus accumbens were also evaluated Animal self-medication with the extract significantly improved anxiety-like behaviors, as evidenced by increased exploration in the Open Field Test and greater time spent in the open arms of the Elevated Plus Maze. The extract also reduced the rat immobility time, suggesting an antidepressant effect. Moreover, self-medication of the extract mitigated antioxidant parameters and the levels of key neurotransmitters (dopamine and serotonin), negatively affected by chronic alcohol consumption. Histological analysis revealed that V. africana extract also preserved the structural integrity of the nucleus accumbens, a critical brain region involved in addiction These findings highlight the therapeutic potential of V. africana in alleviating alcohol addiction and its associated withdrawal symptoms, warranting further exploration of its active constituents for clinical applications in the management of addiction.