Crocus sativus improves cognitive functions and reduces anxiety-like behavior in aged rats exposed to chronic cold temperature-induced stress
Abstract
Introduction: Chronic cold stress acts as an influential environmental stressor that disrupts neuro-behavioral functions, which include anxiety responses, cognitive performance, mood regulation, and stress susceptibility. In spite of the growing recognition of cold-induced neuropathology, effective therapeutic strategies remain limited. Crocus sativus (saffron) extract, and its principle bioactive constituents (crocin, crocetin, safranal) have emerged as effective neuroprotectants. They elicit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and have beneficial effects on cognitive functions, memory, and anxiety-related behaviors. However, their potency in cold-induced neuropathology remains obscure.
Methods: Structured phytochemical characterization of saffron extract was performed using UV-visible spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography. The antioxidant profile of the extract using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging activity was analyzed, along with the assessment of total phenolic content, total flavonoid content and moisture content. Chronic cold exposure was induced at 4°C for 30 min/day over a period of 4 weeks. Neurobehavioral parameters of general exploration, anxiety, and memory were evaluated using established behavioral assessment paradigms of open field, elevated plus maze, Y-maze, and novel object recognition, respectively.
Results: Phytochemical…
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