Effect of resveratrol on scopolamine-induced cognitive impairment in mice

Background: Resveratrol (3,4',5-trihydroxystilbene) is a naturally occurring compound found in grapes, wine, peanuts and cranberries. Recently, in vitro and cell culture studies have reported beneficial effects of resveratrol in the neurodegenerative process in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, in vivo effect of resveratrol in models of learning and memory is not yet evaluated. The present study was performed to examine the effect of resveratrol on cognitive impairment induced by scopolamine, a muscarinic antagonist, in mice. Methods: Scopolamine was administered in a dose of 1 mg/kg intraperitoneally (ip). Cognitive functions were assessed using transfer latency (TL) on elevated plus maze, step-down latency (SDL) on a passive avoidance apparatus and escape latency (EL) in Morris water maze test. Results: Scopolamine produced significant prolongation of TL, reduction in SDL as well as EL showing cognitive impairment in mice. Pre-treatment with resveratrol (10 mg/kg and 20 mg/kg, ip) for 21 days showed no difference in TL, SDL and EL. Conclusion: Resveratrol treatment does not reverse scopolamine-induced deficit in cognitive functions in mice.