Effect of Taurine on learning-memory ability and M-cholinergic receptor in dementia model mice induced by scopolamine

Aim To observe the effect of taurine on learning-memory ability and its mechanism in model mice induced by scopolamine(Scop). Methods Kunming mice were randomly divided into normal control group, Scop model group, taurine groups (0.3, 0.75, 1.875 g·kg -1) and Piracetam group (positive control group). The drugs were continually intra-gastrically administrated for 5 days. On day 5, after intraperitoneal injection of scopolamine, mice were subjected to Morris water maze test. 5 days later, M-cholinregic receptor binding was assayed by radio ligand binding test.Results Compared with model group, significant decrease of swimming time and distance in Morris water maze test was observed in all 3 taurine groups. Taurine at middle dose increased M-cholinergic receptor binding in the brain of model mice. Conclusion Taurine effectively improves learning-memory ability in model mice induced by scopolamine injection. The mechanism relates with the improvement of M-cholinergic receptors of brain.