Albizia zygia root extract exhibits antipsychotic-like properties in murine models of schizophrenia.

Background: The root extract of Albizia zygia (DC.) J.F. Macbr. (Leguminosae) is used to manage mental disorders in African traditional medicine. However, its value, particularly, against negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia have not been evaluated.

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the antipsychotic properties of the hydroethanolic root extract of Albizia zygia (AZE) against positive, negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia in animal models.

Materials And Methods: The effects of AZE (30-300 mg kg) were evaluated against apomorphine-induced cage climbing as well as ketamine -induced hyperlocomotion, -enhanced immobility, -impaired social interaction and novel object recognition. The propensity of AZE to induce catalepsy and to attenuate haloperidol-induced catalepsy were also investigated.

Results: AZE 30-300 mg kg significantly reduced apomorphine-induced climbing behaviour as well as ketamine-induced hyperlocomotion, immobility and object recognition deficits (at least P < 0.05). Moreover, the extract showed no cataleptic effect but significantly inhibited haloperidol-induced catalepsy at a dose of 30 mg kg (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: The root extract of Albizia zygia exhibited an antipsychotic-like activity in mice with potential to alleviate positive, negative and cognitive symptoms of schizophrenia.