# Macaranga peltata Alleviates Neuropsychiatric Disorders in Mouse Model and Computational Study

## TL;DR

This study shows that Macaranga peltata leaf extract has anxiolytic, antidepressant, and pain-relieving effects in mice, supported by computational modeling of its active compounds.

## Contribution

The study identifies 2-hydroxy-6-methylbenzaldehyde as a potential bioactive compound in MEMPL with therapeutic potential for neuropsychiatric disorders.

## Key findings

- MEMPL showed anxiolytic effects in elevated plus maze and hole-board tests.
- MEMPL demonstrated antinociceptive effects in writhing and paw-licking tests.
- Computational modeling linked 2-hydroxy-6-methylbenzaldehyde to proteins involved in anxiety and pain.

## Abstract

This study investigated the neuropharmacological and analgesic effects of the methanol extract of Macaranga peltata leaves (MEMPL) in rodents, supported by computational modeling. Phytochemical and GC–MS analyses revealed alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols, glycosides, diterpenes, and other bioactive compounds. MEMPL (200 and 400 mg/kg) significantly increased open‐arm exploration in the elevated plus maze and reduced head dipping in the hole‐board test (p < 0.05), indicating anxiolytic activity. Dose‐dependent reductions in locomotor activity in the open‐field and hole‐cross tests (p < 0.05) suggested central nervous system depressant effects. Although MEMPL reduced immobility in both FST and TST, its effects were notably weaker than fluoxetine, indicating modest antidepressant‐like activity. MEMPL also demonstrated significant antinociceptive effects in acetic acid–induced writhing and formalin‐induced paw‐licking tests, likely via prostaglandin inhibition. Computational screening identified 2‐hydroxy‐6‐methylbenzaldehyde as a potential bioactive compound with strong binding to proteins involved in anxiety, depression, and nociception. Overall, these findings highlight MEMPL's broad neuropharmacological and analgesic potential, demanding further mechanistic and dose–response studies.

The methanol extract of Macaranga peltata leaves (MEMPL) exhibited notable neuropharmacological and analgesic properties in rodents. Phytochemical and GC–MS analyses confirmed diverse bioactive compounds. MEMPL (200–400 mg/kg) showed anxiolytic, antidepressant, CNS depressant, and antinociceptive effects, comparable to standard drugs. Computational modeling identified 2‐hydroxy‐6‐methylbenzaldehyde as a potential active ligand targeting key neural receptors. These results suggest
M. peltata
as a promising source of phytochemicals for managing anxiety, depression, and pain‐related disorders.