Neuropharmacological Potential of Fragaria x ananassa Fruit Extracts: Attenuation of Anxiety-Like Behavior via Serotonergic Modulation and Catalase Upregulation.

Abstract

Background: Fragaria × ananassa has been known for its nutritional values and rich phytoconstituent composition. Its neuropharmacological properties, however, in terms of modulation of anxiety, brain monoamines and central oxidative stress remain poorly investigated.
Objective: To assess the chronic anti-anxiety effects, neurochemical changes and antioxidants mechanisms of the aqueous and n-hexane fruit extracts of Fragaria × ananassa on animal models.
Methods: The methods adopted were water extraction and n-hexane extraction of fruits. Qualitative phytochemical screening was performed. Swiss albino mice were divided into three groups, standard (Diazepam), control and extract treatment for both the extracts (50mg/kg, 100mg/kg p.o.) and treated for 21 days. Behavioral tests were performed on EPM, Light-Dark Box and OFT on days 0, 7, 14 and 21. The 5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) levels and oxidative stress markers Malondialdehyde (MDA), reduced glutathione (GSH), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were determined in the brain tissue.
Results: The phytochemical screening revealed that aqueous and n-hexane fruit extracts of Fragaria × ananassa were rich in flavonoids, phenols, tannins, saponins, and alkaloids while FAH was rich in steroids and terpenoids. Both extracts (50 mg/kg and 100 mg/kg) significantly increased the number of entries into the open arm in EPM and the time spent in the light compartment in the Light-Dark test, and increased light-area entry and light occupancy in the Light-Dark test in a time-dependent manner. In the OFT, there was an increase in the number of line crossings over time without sedation. The concentrations of 5-HT in the brain increased significantly by aqueous and n-hexane extracts whereas Diazepam reduced the brain 5-HT level. In addition, aqueous and n-hexane fruit extracts decreased lipid peroxidation (MDA) and increased endogenous antioxidant defenses (GSH, SOD) and aqueous and n-hexane fruit extracts significantly increased Catalase activity in a dose-dependent manner.
Conclusions: Chronic treatment with Fragaria x ananassa fruit extracts has significant anxiolytic-like effects, through serotonergic upregulation and central antioxidant preservation, with the aqueous extract showing a higher enzymatic antioxidant enhancement.