Repurposing N-acetylcysteine: Unveiling Its Potential for Memory Enhancement in Animal Model

¹Neurochemistry and Biochemical Neuropharmacology Research Unit, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan

²Neuroscience Research Laboratory, Dr. Panjwani Center for Molecular Medicine and Drug Research, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan

*Corresponding author: Huma Ikram, Department of Biochemistry, University of Karachi, Karachi-75270, Pakistan, Tel: +92-322-2697307, E-mail: [email protected]

Received Date: July 14, 2024

Publication Date: November 01, 2024

Citation: Ikram H, et al. (2024). Repurposing N-acetylcysteine: Unveiling Its Potential for Memory Enhancement in Animal Model. Nutraceutical Res. 3(2):09.

Copyright: Ikram H, et al. © (2024).

ABSTRACT

Objectives: N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a well-known antioxidant and mucolytic agent with emerging evidence suggesting its neuroprotective properties. This study investigates the potential of NAC to enhance memory in an animal model, exploring its repurposing for cognitive enhancement. Methods: Adult male Albino Wistar rats weighing 200±20g were orally administered NAC at the dose of 25, 50 and 100mg/kg. On day 0, rats underwent training in the Morris Water Maze (MWM) and familiarization in the Novel Object Recognition (NOR) test. Following administration of water or respective NAC doses, memory performance was assessed using the MWM test, measuring acquisition, retention and consolidation. The NOR test was also conducted to evaluate recognition memory. Additional behavioral assessments included the open field, Skinner’s box, light-dark activity box, elevated plus maze, and forced swim test were also performed. Rats were then decapitated; brain samples were isolated and stored at -70°C until analysis by HPLC-EC. Results: NAC administration showed a dose-dependent improvement in memory performance in both the MWM and NOR tests. Behavioral activities indicated enhanced cognitive function and reduced anxiety-like behaviors post-NAC administration. Neurochemical analysis of brain samples revealed changes in dopamine and serotonin metabolism. Conclusion: NAC demonstrates capacity for memory enhancement and cognitive improvement, with effects measured via several behavioral assessments. Findings may help in extending therapeutics in cognitive disorders.

Keywords: N-acetylcysteine, Memory Enhancement, Neuroprotection, Oxidative Stress, Cognitive Function, Animal Model