Ethanolic Persea americana (Avocado) Seed Extract Exhibits Antidepressant Effects and Restores BDNF Levels in Reserpine-Induced Depressive Rats

Abstract

Background: Persea americana (Avocado) seeds contain flavonoids, phenolic compounds, rutin, and catechin derivatives possessing antioxidant and neuroprotective activities. Previous studies have reported free radical scavenging and anti-inflammatory properties of avocado seed extracts, suggesting their potential relevance in depressive disorders. Therefore, the present study was designed to evaluate the antidepressant-like activity of ethanolic Persea americana seed extract in reserpine-induced depressive behaviour in Wistar rats. Materials and Methods: Thirty-five female Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n=7). Depression was induced using reserpine (0.2 mg/kg, i.p.) for 14 days. Amitriptyline (25 mg/kg, p.o.) and ethanolic Persea americana seed extract (250 and 500 mg/kg, p.o.) were administered orally. Behavioural assessments included Tail Suspension Test (TST), Actophotometer Test, and Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) Test were carried out. Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF) levels and histopathological alterations in brain tissues were also evaluated. Results: Reserpine administration produced significant depressive-like behaviour characterized by increased immobility duration, reduced locomotor activity, decreased open-arm exploration, reduced BDNF levels, and neuronal degeneration in brain tissues. Treatment with ethanolic Persea americana seed extract significantly improved behavioural performance, restored BDNF levels, and reduced histopathological alterations compared with the positive control group. The high-dose extract-treated group demonstrated effects comparable to amitriptyline treatment. Conclusion: Ethanolic Persea americana seed extract exhibited significant antidepressant-like and neuroprotective activity in reserpine-induced depressive behaviour, suggesting its potential therapeutic relevance in depressive disorders.