Inhibition of MAO and GABA: probable mechanisms for antidepressant-like activity of Nardostachys jatamansi DC. in mice

Research Gist

This study explored how Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi) may influence mood at the level of brain chemistry. Young Swiss albino mice received an ethanolic extract of Jatamansi at three different doses daily for 14 days, and were then assessed in two standard behavioural tests used in mood research. The extract produced mood-supporting effects that were comparable to two reference compounds, imipramine and sertraline. General movement activity was unchanged, showing the effect was not simply stimulation. The extract reduced the activity of both MAO-A and MAO-B — enzymes that break down monoamine neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine — which increased their levels in the brain. When the researchers blocked GABA-B receptors, the effect was reduced, suggesting GABA signalling also plays a part.