Investigating the behavioral and antioxidative effects of ethanolic extract from Schumanniophyton magnificum (K. Schum) in ketamine-induced psychosis in mice

Abstract

Ayomide G Olusola, Abiola M Asowata-Ayodele, Olalekan Olatuyi, Felix Afolabi, Aanuoluwa J Salemcity and Babawale Peter Olatunji

This study investigates the behavioral and antioxidative effects of ethanolic extract from Schumanniophyton magnificum (K. Schum) in a mouse model. Psychosis poses significant health risks globally, influencing various aspects of mental and physical well-being, such as impaired reasoning, depression, memory loss, and social isolation. Despite its relevance, there is a lack of research into the potential therapeutic effects of Schumanniophyton magnificum leaves in managing psychosis, underscoring the need for innovative treatment approaches. In this study, Schumanniophyton magnificum was administered orally to groups of ketamine-induced psychotic mice at dosages of 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg for 14 days, with a control group for comparison. Behavioral assessments were conducted using the Open Field Test to measure hyperlocomotion, the Y-Maze Test to evaluate learning and memory (cognition), and the Novel Object Recognition Test to assess exploration and environmental interaction. Following the behavioral tests, biochemical assays were performed. The results showed that after 14 days of treatment, Schumanniophyton magnificum significantly (P < 0.05) reduced hyperlocomotion induced by ketamine, a marker of positive symptoms of psychosis. Additionally, doses of 100 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg significantly improved spatial memory and prevented cognitive impairments associated with ketamine administration. The plant treatments also resulted in increased activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), while decreasing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, indicating potential antipsychotic effects via the inhibition of oxidative stress. This study suggests that Schumanniophyton magnificum may offer a promising, cost-effective approach to managing psychosis and mitigating its associated health and socioeconomic impacts.

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