Ethanol Extract of Chrysophyllum albidum Stem Bark Elicits Neurobehavioural Alterations via Oxidative Stress, Histological Changes, and Cholinergic Disruption in Wistar Rats

Abstract

Chrysophyllum albidum stem bark reportedly possess antioxidant activity and ameliorated some markers of diabetes complications. However, limited data exist on its safety. Thus, this study reports the neurotoxic potential of ethanol extract of Chrysophyllum albidum stem bark (ECASB) in male Wistar rats. A total of twenty Wistar rats were grouped into four (n = 5) and were administered ECASB at doses of 55.56, 166.67, 500 mg/kg or distilled water (10 mL/kg) for 14 days. From the 11th day of treatment, the animals were subjected to neurobehavioral evaluations. On the 15th day, the animals were euthanized and brain tissues were harvested for Acetylcholinesterase activity, reduced glutathione, malondialdehyde level and histological analysis. At 500 mg/kg ECASB, a significant decrease in animals’ body weight was recorded. In the Morris water maze test, learning improved during training although retention was slightly impaired in experimental rats. In addition, reduced locomotor activity was observed in rats administered 166.67 and 500 mg/kg doses of ECASB. Interestingly, anxiety-like behaviour was reduced, as depicted by increased time spent in the light compartment of the light/dark box test in the two higher doses. Additionally, depressive-like behaviours were lessened. Administration of the extracts induces oxidative stress and increases acetylcholinesterase activity, especially at 500 mg/kg. The histological analysis showed a decrease in viable Purkinje neurons, especially in the animals treated with 500 mg/kg ECASB. The ethanol extract of C. albidum stem bark appears to offer neurobehavioral and cognitive benefits at lower doses while higher doses could pose neurotoxic risks.