Investigation of the effects of agomelatin on scopolamine-induced dementia model in mice

Aim: In this study, we investigated the effects of agomelatine on cognitive functions in an Alzheimer-like dementia model with scopolamine. Material and Method: In our study, 8-12 weeks old male BALB/c mice subjects were divided into 5 groups. In order to form dementia, the SCO group received 3 mg / kg / day scopolamine i.p. for 14 days. SCO + AGO group was given scopolamine for 14 days, 10 mg / kg / day agomelatin oral gavage was administered 5-14. days. In the DON group, 5 mg / kg / day donepezil (i.p) was used and the effects of agomelatin on cognitive parameters were investigated. Following drug administration, passive avoidance, open space, novel object recognition and a modified plus maze test were carried out. BDNF, GPX and SOD levels were examined to determine cognitive function and antioxidant activity. Results: It was observed that cognitive functions were significantly impaired in passive avoidance, modified elevated plus maze test and novel object recognition test which examined learning and memory parameters in scopolamine group. Although it was observed that the scopolamine deteriorated learning and memory improved slightly in the new object recognition test with agomelatine and donepezil with scopolamine, this improvement was observed It was not found as significant. In biochemical measurements, it was observed that BDNF synthesis, which has an important role in neurodegenerative diseases in scopolamine group, decreased significantly compared to the control group and it was found that drug administration significantly increased this decrease in BDNF level. GPX and SOD synthesis, which are antioxidant defense enzymes, decreased significantly in scopolamine group compared to control. In agomelatine and donepezil group, antioxidant enzymes increased compared to scopolamine group but no statistical significance was found. Conclusion: Cognitive dysfunctions with scopolamine administration were partially improved by agomelatin administration and this improvement was attributed to the increase in BDNF levels. Key Words: Agomelatine, Dementia, Alzheimer, Scopolamine, BDNF