Evaluation of neuroprotective effects of <i>Pyracantha crenulata</i> (D. Don) M. Roem against aluminium chloride induced memory impairment of rats

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE: , traditionally used in Himalayan folk medicine, valued for enhancing vitality, mental clarity, and combating age-related cognitive decline due to its antioxidant constituents. AIM: )-induced Alzheimer's disease in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: extract (250 and 500 mg/kg) for 21 days. Cognitive and behavioural performance were assessed using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) and Elevated Plus Maze (EPM). Biochemical parameters, including oxidative stress markers (SOD), cholinesterase activity (AChE), and myeloperoxidase levels (MPO), were measured. Histopathological examination of the hippocampus and cerebral cortex was conducted. RESULTS: extract significantly enhanced spatial and long-term memory in a dose-dependent manner, with the higher dose producing the most pronounced improvement. CONCLUSION: , demonstrated through modulation of biochemical parameters and suppression of amyloid precursor protein and Tau, key pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease, further validated by histopathological evidence.