article · African Journal of Biological Sciences
Celtis integrifolia is a plant found in northern Cameroon, where traditional practitioners use its roots to treat nervous system disorders. This investigation evaluated the chemical composition, safety, and neuroprotective properties of aqueous and ethanol fractions derived from these roots in a mouse model of monosodium glutamate induced neurodegeneration. Laboratory tests showed that the fractions contain alkaloids, flavonoids, and saponins, while displaying low toxicity in cell viability and red blood cell assays. When administered to mice, both extracts significantly countered the detrimental effects of monosodium glutamate on memory function, as shown by improved working memory in maze tests. The extracts also raised exploratory activity and motor behaviour in open field tests, confirming the potential of the root as a non-toxic source of neuroprotective compounds.
Neurodegenerative disorders present major health challenges with limited treatment options. Documenting the biological activity of plants used in traditional medicine provides evidence for their therapeutic value. Demonstrating that Celtis integrifolia root extracts are non-toxic and reverse memory deficits in animal models provides a scientific foundation for identifying new candidates to manage neurodegenerative conditions.
This research could support pharmaceutical developers and natural product researchers seeking lead compounds for neurodegenerative therapies. The findings represent very early-stage research based on preliminary cell assays and mouse behavioural models. Considerable preclinical testing, active compound isolation, and clinical trials will be necessary before any commercial therapeutic products can be developed.
AI-generated from the published abstract. Always read the original work before citing.
Background: Celtis integrifolia is commonly found in Northern parts of Cameroon. The roots are used in traditional medicine to alleviate nervous problems. The current study sought to assess the neuroprotective potential of C. integrifolia against monosodium glutamate (MSG)-induced neurodegenerative like-behaviour in mice. Methods: Aqueous and ethanol fractions of C. integrifolia were investigated for its phytochemicals and cytotoxicity studies (MTT and Hemolysis tests). In different groups of mice (N=5), the extracts were also studied against the effect of MSG in mice. The behavioural paradigms (Y-maze, Open field test (OFT) and Beam walking test) were performed to evaluate spatial and working memory, exploratory and motor coordination. Results: Findings obtained revealed that different doses of aqueous and ethanol extract fractions of C. integrifolia significantly reversed the adverse effect of MSG on memory. This was evidence by a significant (p<0.001) increment in the percentage of spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test and a significant (p<0.001) increase in the total distance and number of lines crossed in OFT. IC50 of the ethanol and water fractions were equal to 510.01 mg/ml and 436.78 mg/ml in hemolytic test. Using the MTT test the IC50 were 241.85 mg/ml 211.44 mg/ml in respectively for the ethanol and water fractions. Both water and ethanol fractions of C. integrifolia are rich of flavonoids, saponins and alkaloids. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated the root of C. integrifolia is not toxic and has a potential neuroprotective that can investigate for treatment of various neurodegenerative diseases.
This page summarises published work. The authoritative version sits with the publisher.
DOI: 10.21608/ajbs.2025.372534.1125
Is something wrong with this record? Report it or request removal.
Discussion
Have you built on this work, tried to replicate it, or seen it applied in practice? Share what you know. Verified researchers and MARATTO™ domain experts can open a discussion, and any member can reply. Contributions are reviewed before they appear.
No discussion yet. Open the first thread.
New to MARATTO™? Create a free account.
