Grifola frondosa polysaccharides alleviate Alzheimer's disease in rats

Objective: To evaluate the effect of Grifola frondosa polysaccharides (GFP) in a rat model of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Methods: Seventy-five rats were divided into five groups: the normal control group and the AD group treated with or without GFP (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg). Behavioral responses in the open field test and elevated plus maze test were assessed. Additionally, the levels of malondialdehyde and ferric-reducing ability of plasma, and the mRNA expressions of TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1 beta in the hippocampus were measured. Results: Treatment with GFP significantly improved AD-induced behavioral changes in the open field test and elevated plus maze test (P < 0.05). In addition, the level of malondialdehyde and the mRNA expressions of TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1 beta were decreased by GFP treatment in a dose-dependent manner in AD rats (P < 0.05), while the level of ferric-reducing ability of plasma was significantly increased (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Oral administration of GFP can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as improve behavioral responses associated with AD, suggesting its potential use in AD treatment. However, additional studies are needed to elucidate its underlying mechanisms and efficacy.