Gao-Zi-Yao improves learning and memory function in old spontaneous hypertensive rats

AIMS: Gao-Zi-Yao has long been a unique way for treating various diseases. The present study is to explore the effect of Gao-Zi-Yao on learning and memory function in old spontaneous hypertensive rats (SHR) and its possible mechanism. METHOD: Male old SHR were received different doses of Gao-Zi-Yao for 4 weeks. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) and heart rate were monitored. Serum levels of nitric oxide (NO), interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-2, and tumor necrotic factor (TNF)-α were measured. Morris water maze was performed to test the learning and memory function of the rats. Number of neurons in hippocampus was counted by Nissl staining. Western blot was applied to detect the expressions of learning and memory function related proteins, N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor 2B (NMDAR 2B), glutamate receptor 1 (GluR1), phosphorylated-calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (p-CaMK II), and phosphorylated-cAMP responsive element-binding protein (p-CREB) in rat hippocampus. RESULTS: Data showed that Gao-Zi-Yao reduced SBP in old SHR, elevated NO level, and suppressed levels of IL-1β, IL-2, TNF-α. The results of Morris water maze experiment showed that Gao-Zi-Yao dose-dependently improved learning and memory function. Number of neurons in the hippocampal dentate gyrus (DG) region of the old SHR was increased by Gao-Zi-Yao treatment. In addition, Gao-Zi-Yao elevated the protein expressions of NMDAR 2B, GluR1, p-CaMK II, and p-CREB in hippocampus. CONCLUSION: Gao-Zi-Yao decreases SBP and improves the learning and memory function of the old SHR by regulation of oxidative stress, inflammatory factors and neuron number in hippocampal DG area and the expression of learning and memory function related proteins. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12906-022-03630-0.