Effect of Coco's nucifera liquid (Coconut Water) on the Hippocampus of Aluminum Chloride Induced Neurodegenerative Disorder

Neurodegenerative disorders, are marked by progressive neuronal loss and cognitive decline. Aluminum chloride (AlCl₃) exposure has been shown to induce neurodegenerative changes through oxidative damage and inflammation. This study investigated the neuroprotective potential of Cocos nucifera (coconut water) on AlCl₃-induced neurodegeneration in Wistar rats. Thirty-two adult rats were randomly assigned into eight groups: Group I control (distilled water only), Group II, inducement of ND’s (AlCl₃-only), Group III (donepezil-only), Group IV: ND’s + donepezil (AlCl₃ and donepezil), Group V: ND's + (coconut water 500mg/kg), Group VI: ND's+ coconut water 1500mg/kg, Group VII: coconut water 500mg/kg only and Group VIII coconut water high dose (1500mg/kg only). Neurodegeneration was induced with AlCl₃ (10 mg/kg) for 14 days, followed by 14 days of treatment. Behavioral assessment using the Y-maze evaluated spatial working memory, while biochemical assays measured antioxidant markers—GSH, GPx, CAT, SOD, and MDA. Results revealed that coconut water treatment improved antioxidant status, with significant increases in CAT (group V - 3.60 ± 0.52, group VI - 3.75 ± 0.04) and GPx (group V - 0.04 ± 0.00, group VI - 0.04 ± 0.00) levels (p < 0.05) compared to the AlCl₃-induced group (CAT - 2.19 ± 0.02 and Gpx - 0.04 ± 0.00) indicating enhanced oxidative defense. Although no statistically significant differences were found in Y-maze performance across groups (p > 0.05). In conclusion, coconut water did not avert memory loss induced by AlCl3 toxicity at the dosage administered.