Passiflora ligularis extract improved acetylcholinesterase activity, oxidative stress markers, and neurocognitive outcomes in scopolamine-induced Alzheimer's model in zebrafish

Background: Passiflora ligularis (granadilla) is known for its health benefits, including its potential in managing obesity. inflammation, and diabetes. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of an extract from P. ligularis fruit (PAS) o neuroinflammation, n cognitive function, and oxidative stress in a zebrafish model of scopolamine (SCO)-induced neurodegeneration. Methods: Flavonoid profile was evaluated using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC-UV-MS). Zebrafish (Danio rerio) received oral PAS at dose of 4, 6, and 8 µg/ml or donepezil used as positive control (0.65 mg/kg) for 19 days, followed by SCO administration (100 µg/ml) one hour before behavioral tests. These included the novel tank diving test (NTT), Y-maze test, and novel object recognition test (NOR). Post-experiment biochemical brain parameters were analyzed. Results: HPLC-UV-MS identified 11 phenolic compounds previously reported for their neuroprotective potential. PAS treatment significantly improved acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity, oxidative stress markers, and neurocognitive impairments, demonstrating effects comparable to the donepezil group. Conclusions: These findings suggest that Passiflora ligularis extract may be a promising phytotherapeutic approach for alleviating memory impairment and symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Novelty of the study: This study investigates the effect of Passiflora ligularis extract on neurodegenerative disease in zebrafish model, revealing its potential to alleviate neurocognitive impairments mitigate neuroinflammation, reactive oxygen species and acetylcholinesterase.