The Effect of ascorbic acid injection into lateral ventricle on spatial learning and memory on adult male rats

Introduction: Ascorbic acid (AA) acts as an antioxidant in the Central nervous system (CNS) of the mammalians. It is released from the some nerve ending together with neurotransmitters. The results have shown that Ascorbic acid could affect learning as well as memory. In this study, we examined the effect of ICV injection of ascorbic acid on learning and memory by Morris water maze. Method: In the present study, 42 adult male rats weighing 250-300 g were used. then cannula implanted bilaterally in LV (AP=-0.8, LA=±1.5, DV=3.4).After recovery period, the animals were divided into 6 groups including control group(no injected), 4 groups as experimental groups (received different doses of ascorbic acid 25, 50, 100, 150 mg/kg), 5th group as Sham-operated group (received normal saline as vehicle). Injection period has taken five consecutive days. 30 min after each injection they were trained in Morris Water Maze (MWM). Spatial learning and memory parameters recorded and then were analyzed. Results: These results showed that ICV injection of ascorbic acid decreased learning and spatial memory in rats. Ascorbic acid (100 mg/kg) significantly decreased learning and spatial memory. Conclusion: It can be concluded that ascorbic acid decreased learning and spatial memory, directly or indirectly through interference to the neurotransmitters effects.