Ludwigia octovalvis (Jacq.) P.H. Raven extract improves memory performance in mice with chronic kidney disease

Background Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant global health concern often accompanied by cognitive impairment in affected patients. Ludwigia octovalvis extract (LOE) is a traditional medicine widely used for various conditions, including renal disease and its associated complications. However, the pharmacological effects and underlying mechanisms of LOE on CKD remain unclear. Methods Adult male mice underwent a 4-week oral adenine-induced CKD model, followed by daily administration of either a vehicle, losartan, or LOE for 1 to 2 months. A battery of behavioral tests was conducted to examine CKD-associated cognitive impairments. Additionally, RNA sequencing, Golgi staining, and immunohistochemistry were performed to decipher the underlying mechanisms. Results Neither losartan nor LOE supplementation could reverse adenine-induced kidney damage. However, during behavioral tests, both losartan and LOE treatments improved memory performance in mice without affecting emotional status and general locomotor activity. Transcriptome profiling and histological analyses revealed altered dendritic arborization and increased spine density of dentate granule cells, along with augmented adult hippocampal neurogenesis, contributing to the improved memory performance of mice treated with LOE. Conclusion Our study provides comprehensive neurobehavioral and molecular evidence supporting the potential use of LOE for future CKD-associated memory dysfunction treatment.