The Protective Role of Scoparia Dulcis Linn. in Alzheimer’s Disease

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder that appears simultaneously with age. AD is caused by oxidative stress, which generates the oxidation of biomolecules such as DNA, proteins, and lipids. The present study aimed to evaluate protein and lipid protection against damage caused by the free radical and anticholinesterase properties of Scoparia dulcis, which are relevant to AD therapy. Furthermore, phytochemical profiling of S. dulcis extract was also observed. Quantitative phytochemical (phenolic, flavonoid and tannin contents) analysis of methanol, butanol, and ethyl acetate fraction substances in S. dulcis was performed by standard spectrophotometric methods. Butanolic extracts showed maximum amounts of phytochemicals, including phenolics, flavonoids, and tannins. The butanolic extract also showed the highest acetylcholinesterase potential inhibition and DPPH radical scavenging, with IC50 values of 93.24 and 22.8 μg/mL, respectively, in a dose-dependent manner. Additionally, the butanol fraction exhibited strong FeSO4-induced lipid peroxidation inhibition. The best free-radical-induced protein oxidation inhibitory activity was observed in methanol samples. In conclusion, this study suggests that S. dulcis is a potential agent for drug development against AD. HIGHLIGHTS Butanolic Scoparia dulcis extract exhibited maximum amounts of phenolic, flavonoid, and tannins Butanolic fraction of dulcis extracts was the most active AChEI activity and DPPH radical scavenging Scoparia dulcis showed strong free-radical-induced lipid and protein damage inhibition Butanolic Scoparia dulcis warrant further investigation for Alzheimer's disease treatment GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT