Enhanced Effect of Aqueous Extract of Telfairia occidentalis Seed on the Microstructure of the Hippocampus of Scopolamine Hydrobromide-Induced Cognitive Dysfunction Rats

Aims: This study assessed histological parameter of the hippocampus using scopolamine-induced cognitive dysfunction rats following the administration of aqueous extract of Telfairia occidentalis seed.

Materials and Methods: Thirty Wistar rats weighed between 180-200 g were randomly grouped into five, designated I, II, III, IV and V each containing six rats. Cognitive dysfunction was induced in groups II to V by intraperitoneal administration of 1 mg/kg body weight of scopolamine for seven days before the aqueous extract administration. Group I were fed with animal feed and water ad libitum. Groups III and IV received 875 and 1750 mg/kg body weight of aqueous extract of Telfairia occidentalis seed while group V received 1 mg/kg body weight of donepezil for fourteen days. Twenty-four hours after the last administration, the animals were anaesthetized with their brain tissues perfused, processed and stained with haematoxylin and eosin.

Results: Results showed atrophied and karyorrhectic cells with disrupted cell membranes in group II. These pathological features were less in groups III and V but none in group IV when compared to group I. The ameliorative effect of aqueous extract of T. occidentalis may be attributed to the presence of exogenous antioxidants which helps to neutralize the toxic effects caused by scopolamine.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the cellular damage caused by scopolamine hydrobromide was reduced in dose dependent manner following administration of aqueous extract of T. occidentalis seed.