The effect of hydroalcoholic extract of Cyperus rotundus rhizome on memory and learning in Streptozotocin-induced rat model of Alzheimer's disease

Background and

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the most important neurodegenerative diseases resulting in free radicals and oxidative stress production. Since Cyperus rotundus plant contains anti-oxidant components, the effects of Cyperus rotundus tuber hydroalcoholic extract on learning and memory improvement in the Alzheimer model rats was investigated. 
Methods and Materials: In this experimental research, Intracerebroventricular streptozotocin injection in the rats created a suitable model of Alzheimer. Rats were divided into 7 groups: control, sham, Alzheimer, Alzheimer + extract treated, and normal + extract treated groups. Treated groups received the extract with dosages of 100 and 200 mg/kg in 21 days. The rate of rat's learning and spatial memory was investigated using passive avoidance learning and Y-maze methods.

In the rate of IL (Initial Latency), there was no difference between groups (p>0.001). There is a different meaning in the rate of STL (Step through Latency) between different groups (p<0.001). Considering the Y-maze examination, there was no significant difference between the groups (p>0.001).

Results of STZ injection showed significant decrease in memory and learning. Treatment with Cyperus rotundus extract could increase the capability of consolidation and recall.