Effects of methoxsalen from poncirus trifoliata on acetylcholinesterase and trimethyltin-induced learning and memory impairment

Previously, we identified methoxsalen (8-methoxy- 2′,3′,6,7- furocoumarin) as the bioactive compound probably responsible for acetylcholinesterase (AchE) inhibition achieved by feeding crude extract of Poncirus trifoliate. To confirm the activity of methoxsalen, Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) mice were fed a control or a methoxsalen-supplemented diet for 4 weeks, and then learning and memory enhancing effects with respect to trimethyltin (TMT)-induced neurotoxicity were evaluated. The brain tissues of ICR mice were dissected after completion of the behavioral tests for biochemical analysis. Methoxsalen effectively reversed TMT-induced memory impairment on both Y-maze and passive avoidance tests. Brain AchE activity was inhibited by the oral consumption of all concentrations of methoxsalen. Moreover, the level of oxidative stress was significantly ameliorated in the groups on methodsalen containing diets. This is the first in vivo study conducted with methoxsalen in the field of AD research, and it indicates that further investigation of methoxsalen is warranted.