Chronic Constriction Injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve is associated with cognitive impairments, particularly memory deficits. The hippocampus, a critical region for memory consolidation, is highly vulnerable to neuroinflammation and oxidative stress following injury. One of its key molecular mediators, Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF), plays a vital role in neuronal survival and synaptic plasticity. Potentilla reptans L. root (PRL), a medicinal plant known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic properties. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of PRL on hippocampal neurons, memory function, and hippocampal BDNF levels in rats following CCI induction. Thirty-two adult male Wistar rats were assigned to four groups: control, CCI, CCI + Vehicle (normal saline), and CCI + PRL (50 mg/kg, i.p. for 14 days). Cognitive performance was assessed using the novel object recognition test, following behavioral testing, brain tissues were harvested for histological assessment of hippocampal dark neurons and BDNF protein expression. The findings indicated that CCI significantly reduced the recognition index (RI) during the novel object recognition test and decreased hippocampal BDNF levels. Histological analysis also revealed a significant increase in the number of dark neurons in the CA1 and CA3 regions compared to the control group. In contrast, PRL treatment significantly improved RI, elevated BDNF levels and reduced neuronal damage in the CA1 and CA3 regions relative to the CCI groups. These results suggest that PRL extract exerts neuroprotective effects in the CCI model, as demonstrated by improved memory performance, reduced neuronal damage, and increased hippocampal BDNF levels.
Naghdi et al. (2026) studied this question.