Effect of Passifl ora foetida on Abnormal Locomotion in MPTP Induced Parkinson-Like Behavior in Mice

Abstract

Introduction: Passifl ora foetida L. (passionfl ower) is a climbing vine that grown in tropical
region around the world. In Vietnamese folk medicine, dry leaves are used for sleeping disorder.
Other pharmacological activities of this plant have been studied. Relieving abnormal motility in Parkinson-
like disease is one of interest. Methods: Parkinsonism by 15 mg/kg MPTP (1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,
2, 3, 6-tetrahydropyridine) was performed in C57BL/6 mice. Chronic MPTP injections were administered
for 6 weeks. Three main unusual characteristics in these mice were determined using force plate
actimeter (FPA). Results: Lower number of distance of travelling, higher number of bout of low
mobility (BLM), and higher intensity of peaks power spectra at specifi c frequencies of 9-11 Hz. were
found in MPTP mice. 200 mg/kg passion, a granule suspension form of passionfl ower, signifi cantly
reduced the action of MPTP in distance of travelling, bout of low mobility, and power spectra, as well
as sinemet did. Conclusion: This study suggests that the effect of P. foetida on relieving Parkinson’s
symptoms in mice possibly relate dopaminergic pathway. Therefore, the dopamine levels in the brain
of mice treated with P. foetida need to be evaluated in the further study.