Impact of clove oil on behavioral and biochemical parameters in restrained rats by using docking and experimental approaches

Background: Acute restraint stress activates the (HPA) axis, elevating corticosterone and influencing cognitive function. Clove oil (Syzygium aromaticum), known for its antioxidant and neuroprotective properties, may counteract stress-induced biochemical and behavioral alterations. Objective: This study evaluated the effects of clove oil pretreatment on stress-induced memory changes and biochemical responses in rats, supported by molecular docking of its active constituents. Methods: Rats were divided into stressed and unstressed groups. Memory performance was assessed using the Morris water mMaze (MWM) for long-term memory and the eElevated plus mMaze (EPM) for short-term memory. Plasma corticosterone levels and acetyl cholinesterase (AChE) activity were measured. Molecular docking was performed to assess interactions between clove oil constituents and AChE. Results: Acute restraint stress (2 hours) significantly enhanced long-term and short term memory (p < 0.001). but produced no significant effect on short-term memory (p > 0.01). Clove oil pretreatment reduced escape latency, transfer latency (p=0.000), corticosterone levels (p=0.000), and AChE activity (p= 0.000), indicating attenuation of stress-related effects. Docking analysis showed strong binding affinity of isoeugenol to AChE, with a docking score of –74.2657 kcal/mol. Conclusion: Clove oil exhibits neuroprotective and cognition-enhancing effects in stress-exposed rats, suggesting its potential therapeutic value for managing stress-related cognitive impairments.