Immunomodulatory and locomotor regulations via Diosgenin treatment in lipopolysaccharide-induced chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS)/ depressive despair symptom: an in vivo assessment.

Diosgenin is one of the several bioactive chemicals found in fenugreek. In traditional Chinese medicine and modern pharmacological studies, it is useful as anti-cancer, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and hepatoprotective agents. However, studies investigating its role against antigen-induced neuroinflammation, providing new insights at cellular levels in its pharmacological potential, have not been completely investigated yet. Diosgenin was tested against lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced neuroinflammation in mice using forced swim test, tail suspension test, thermal hyperalgesia, locomotor activity, and grip strength on day 19. Brain homogenate was analyzed for estimation of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), lipid peroxidation, total nitric oxide, and TNF-α levels. Pre-treatment with Diosgenin 10, 20, and 40 mg/kg, i.p. for 21 days showed a significant reduction in immobility duration and improved anxiety-like behavior. Diosgenin further reduced LPS-induced increased nitrosative and oxidative stress, evidenced by increased nitrite levels, lipid peroxidation, and reduced activity of antioxidant enzymes (CAT, SOD, and reduced glutathione), as well as amplified levels of tumor necrosis factor-α, which were associated with behavioral abnormalities. The current research indicates that Diosgenin has a protective role against LPS-induced chronic fatigue syndrome, suggesting that it could be a potent treatment option for the disease.