Evaluating the Neurotherapeutic Potential of Annona Muricate Through Molecular Docking and Phytochemical Analysis

The increasing global burden of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease has intensified the search for effective, plant-based therapies. Annona muricata (soursop) is a tropical plant traditionally used for various ailments, yet its neurotherapeutic potential remains underexplored. This study evaluated the cognitive-enhancing and neuroprotective properties of Annona muricata leaf extracts using a combination of phytochemical analysis, molecular docking, and behavioral testing. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of key bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, and saponins, with n-hexane extracting the highest total phytochemical yield at 45.5%, compared to 31.8% each for hydromethanol and methanol. Molecular docking showed that luteolin and quercetin exhibited strong binding affinities to critical neurological targets, including acetylcholinesterase (−12.0 docking score, −66.6%), NMDA receptors (−9.1 docking score, −50.5%), muscarinic M1 receptors (−11.7 docking score, −65%), and dopamine receptors (up to −10.8 docking score, −60%), suggesting a multi-target mechanism of neuroprotection. In vivo behavioral assessment using the Barnes Maze test demonstrated that rats treated with 300 mg/kg of Annona muricata extract significantly improved spatial learning and memory, with reductions in escape latency by up to 48.2% and in some weeks exceeding control group performance. These findings suggest that Annona muricata possesses promising neurotherapeutic potential and may serve as a natural multi-target agent in the management of Alzheimer’s disease.