Cerasus microcarpa and Amygdalus scoparia Methanolic Extract Protect Cultured Cerebellar Granule Neurons Against β-amyloid-induced Toxicity and Oxidative Stress

 Beta-amyloid peptide (Aβ) causes neural cell death and has a pivotal role in the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). The prevention of Aβ-induced toxicity is a target for agents intend to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Our previous in vitro study indicated anti-cholinesterase and anti-oxidant activity of Amygdalus scoparia and Cerasus microcarpa methanolic extracts. In the present study, their neuroprotective effects against Aβ-induced toxicity are investigated.

 The methanolic extracts of the aerial parts of A. scoparia and C. microcarpa were prepared by the maceration method. In the culture, mature cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) were exposed to Aβ alone or in combination with different concentrations of extracts and incubated for 24 hours, and cell viability was measured by the MTT assay. Oxidative stress markers and AChE activity were also measured. Then, the AChE activity of cultured neurons was measured after incubation with different concentrations of extracts. The LD50 values of extracts were estimated using the limit test.

 The co-incubation of C. microcarpa and A. scoparia extracts with Aβ protected CGNs against Aβ-induced cell death and ameliorated Aβ-induced oxidative stress. The AChE activity of cultured neurons was inhibited by both extracts in a dose-dependent manner. LD50 was estimated as being above 2000 mg/kg for both extracts.

 Both extracts attenuated Aβ-induced cell death by ameliorating oxidative stress. Also, the inhibitory effect of extracts on AChE activity might have been involved. Based on these results, these extracts may have therapeutic effects on Alzheimer’s disease.  However, further investigations are recommended.