Wogonin ameliorates Aβ_1-42 and D-galactose-induced learning and memory impairment in mice

To investigate the effects of Wogonin (WO) on learning and memory impairment, Aβ1-42 was injected intracerebroventricularly to induced a mouse learning and memory impairment model, and D-galactose was injected intraperitoneally to induced a mouse acute aging model. Mice were administered WO (75, 150, or 300 mg/kg) by oral gavage for 28 consecutive days. Cognitive function was assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM), novel object recognition (NOR), and open field tests (OFT). In the Aβ1-42 model, WO treatment (150 and 300 mg/kg) significantly improved the recognition index in the NOR test, while the 150 mg/kg group showed increased target quadrant preference in the MWM test. No changes in the total distance traveled in OFT. In the D-galactose aging model, the 150 mg/kg WO group exhibited increased platform crossings in the MWM test, and all WO doses (75, 150, and 300 mg/kg) enhanced target quadrant preference, with no alterations in spontaneous movement. Western blot analysis revealed that WO significantly attenuated hippocampal apoptosis in both models. These findings suggest that WO ameliorates learning and memory impairment associated with Alzheimer’s disease and aging.