Neuroprotective effects of Launaea taraxacifolia leaf extracts on aluminium chloride-induced motor dysfunction

Abstract

Aluminium is a neurotoxic metal implicated in neurodegenerative disorders. This study investigated the neuroprotective potential of ethanol leaf extract and solvent fractions of Launaea taraxacifolia on motor coordination and balance in aluminium chloride-induced neurotoxicity in rats. Sixty-six adult female Wistar rats (110–180 g) were divided into 11 groups (n=6). Group 1 (control) received distilled water, while Group 2 (neurotoxic control) received aluminium chloride (100 mg/kg) orally. Groups 3–11 were co-administered aluminium chloride (100 mg/kg) with donepezil (2.5 mg/kg), ethanol extract (274, 548, and 822 mg/kg), n-hexane (548 mg/kg), dichloromethane (548 mg/kg), ethyl acetate (548 mg/kg), or aqueous fraction (548 mg/kg) for 21 days. Neurobehavioural tests, including the wire hang and beam walking tests, assessed motor function. Aluminium chloride significantly (p<0.05) reduced hanging time, increased foot slips, and prolonged crossing time compared to the control group. Treatment with ethanol extract and fractions significantly (p<0.05) improved these parameters, suggesting enhanced motor coordination and balance. The results demonstrate that L. taraxacifolia extracts mitigated aluminium-induced motor impairments, supporting its potential as a neuroprotective agent.