Sedative and hypnotic effects of nuciferine: enhancing rodent sleep via serotonergic system modulation.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Insomnia is the most prevalent sleep disorder globally. Nuciferine (NF), a bioactive constituent extracted from Nelumbo nucifera leaves, is recognized for its diverse pharmacological activities. However, its sleep-regulating effects have not been investigated. This study aimed to delineate the therapeutic effects and underlying mechanisms of NF in mitigating insomnia.

Methods

The sedative-hypnotic effects of NF were assessed employing locomotor activity test, pentobarbital-induced sleep test, and electroencephalography-based sleep profiling. Insomnia symptoms in rodents were induced by serotonin (5-HT) depletion and environmental stress. The potential mechanisms of NF's action through the regulation of central serotonin system were also explored.

Results

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SUBMITTER: Wang LX 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12084828 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature