Effect of rosuvastatin on spatial learning, memory, and anxiety-like behaviour in ovariectomized rats

Abstract

The effect of rosuvastatin (Ros) on cognitive function and anxiety-like behaviour in ovariectomized rats were evaluated. Eighteen female Wistar rats (218-310g, 6-8 months old) were allocated into sham (n = 6), ovariectomy (Ovx, n = 6) or Ovx + Ros (up to eighth week n = 6, then n = 4) groups. Ros was administered at 20 mg/kg/day by oral gavage for 12 weeks. Behavioural tests were performed at 4, 8 and 12 weeks following Ovx. At 12weeks, Ovx group had significantly longer escape latency than the sham group at the first day of the four-day training period of the Morris Water Maze test (p < .01). In the Elevated Plus Maze test, Ovx group spent significantly more time in the closed arms than the sham group (p < .01), and this anxiety-like behavioural effect of Ovx was prevented by 12-weeks Ros treatment (p < .05). In conclusion, Ros prevents memory deficit and anxiety-like behaviour in the ovariectomized rats, a model for human surgical menopause.