Protocol for investigating neuroprotective effect of the methanol leaf extract of Mallotus oppositifolius in lipopolysaccharide neuro-inflammation-associated depression in mice. v1

Despite the availability of effective antidepressants, more than a third of patients with depression do not benefit for current medications which mainly act by altering monoaminergic systems in the brain. Furthermore, the current medications are associated with intolerable side effects that further aggravate the patients’ condition. Neuro-inflammation contributes to depression pathogenesis and markers of neuro-inflammation could be putative targets for treatment-resistant depression is an indication. Mallotus oppositifolius is used to treat convulsions, epilepsy, pain, infections, etc. Our works have confirmed the anticonvulsant, acute antidepressant-like, rapid onset antidepressant and anti-aggressive effects of the leaves of Mallotus oppositifolius. Aside these, anti-inflammatory effects of the leaves of Mallotus oppositifolius have been reported. Collectively, these effects seem to suggest that the plant may possess neuroprotective effect. However, no study has been conducted to assess the neuroprotective effect of the leaves of Mallotus oppositifolius. The present work therefore provides a protocol for investigating possible neuroprotective effects of Mallotus oppositifolius in neuro-inflammation models of depression in mice.