EVALUATION OF NEUROPHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIVITY OF MEDICINAL PLANT

Abstract

Objective: The objective of the study is to evaluate the antiparkinsonian activity of hydroalcoholic extract of the seeds of Canavalia gladiata (HECG) in zebrafish and Swiss albino mice.

Materials and Methods: Catalepsy was induced in zebrafish by exposing them to haloperidol solution. Treatment groups were exposed to bromocriptine and HECG, 30 min before haloperidol exposure at the dose of 2, 5, and 10 μg/mL. Latency to travel from one fixed point to another, time spent near the bottom of the tank, and complete cataleptic time were evaluated to assess behavioral changes. In mice, catalepsy was induced using haloperidol (1 mg/kg i.p.). Treatment groups received bromocriptine (2.5 mg/kg) and HECG at the dose of (100, 200, and 300 mg/kg) orally. Bar test for catalepsy, motor coordination test by rotarod, and locomotor activity by actophotometer were carried out to assess behavioral changes.

Results: Bromocriptine and HECG-treated groups showed significant difference in behavioral parameters as compared to haloperidol control group in both the experimental models.

Conclusion: Canavalia gladiata seeds exhibited significant antiparkinsonian activity in haloperidol mouse model and zebrafish. Zebrafish can be used with ease and effectiveness for initial screening of drugs before subjecting them to rodent testing.