Potentiation of the Response of GABA_A Receptors by Bangladeshi Medicinal Plants

Abstract

As part of the search for new sources of mental health supplements, alcohol extracts of 11 Bangladeshi medicinal fruits and plants were investigated for neuropharmacological effects in mice and on ionotropic γ-aminobutyric acid receptors (GABA_A receptors). The extracts of S. caseolaris, T. bellirica, S. cumini, and T. arjuna significantly potentiated the GABA-induced response of GABA_A receptors expressed in Xenopus oocytes, though the extracts alone induced no response. In mice, administration of these extracts prolonged pentobarbital-induced sleeping time. Potentiation of GABA_A receptor response reportedly generates anxiolytic, sedative, sleep-inducing and anesthetic activities in the human brain. Thus, these extracts may have potential regarding the development of a supplement with tranquilizing and sleepinducing effects that is beneficial for mental health.