Neuroprotective Potential of Broccoli Sprout Extract in Scopolamine-Induced Memory-Impaired Mice

Alzheimer’s disease is characterized by progressive cognitive decline associated with oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and impaired neurotrophic signaling. Sulforaphane, a bioactive compound found in broccoli, has demonstrated neuroprotective effects by activating NRF2 and inhibiting NF-κB. However, the efficacy of whole-food-derived sulforaphane remains unclear. This study evaluated the neuroprotective potential of broccoli sprout extract using a scopolamine-induced mouse model of memory impairment. Mice were orally administered broccoli sprout extract once daily at doses of 100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg for four weeks prior to behavioral and biochemical assessments. Treatment with broccoli sprout extract significantly improved scopolamine-induced deficits in long-term memory, as determined by the passive avoidance test. The spatial working memory remained unaffected. High doses of broccoli sprout extract restored hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor levels and reduced cortical lipid peroxidation, suggesting antioxidant and neurotrophic benefits. Additionally, the low dose preserved striatal choline acetyltransferase expression and reduced systemic tumor necrosis factor-alpha and hippocampal cyclooxygenase-2 levels, indicating its anti-inflammatory and cholinergic protective effects. No significant changes in acetylcholinesterase activity or glutathione levels were observed. Overall, these results imply that broccoli sprout extract has multi-targeted neuroprotective effects, possibly involving redox and inflammatory regulation. Therefore, it may be a safe dietary strategy to support cognition in neurodegenerative conditions.