Neuroprotective effects of Boswellia extract in animal models of ischemic stroke,Parkinson''s disease,and Alzheimer''s disease:a systematic review and meta-analysisOA

Background:Neurological disorders(NDs),including ischemic stroke(IS),Parkinson’s disease(PD),and Alzheimer’s disease(AD),are major contributors to global morbidity and mortality.Boswellia extract has demonstrated neuroprotective properties,yet a comprehensive systematic review assessing its efficacy remains absent.This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of Boswellia extract in treating NDs,with a particular focus on its effects in AD and its potential for long-term neurorestoration,thereby supporting further investigation into Boswellia’s therapeutic role in ND management.Methods:A systematic literature search was performed in PubMed,Web of Science,ScienceDirect,and Google Scholar for English-language studies published up to March 2024.Eighteen studies met the inclusion criteria and were included in the meta-analysis.The study protocol was registered on PROSPERO(CRD42024524386).Eligible studies involved rodent models of IS,PD,or AD with post-operative interventions using Boswellia extract.Data extraction focused on mechanisms of action,dosages,treatment durations,and therapeutic outcomes.Studies were excluded if they involved non-ND models,combined treatments,or had incomplete data.Two researchers independently conducted literature screening and data extraction.Statistical analyses were conducted using Stata(version 17)and RevMan(version 5.4),employing fixed or random-effects models based on heterogeneity assessments.Result s:Boswellia extract significantly improved the mean effect size for NDs(ES=1.28,95%CI(1.05,1.51),P<0.001).Specifically,it reduced cerebral infarct volume in IS(SMD=−2.87,95%CI(−3.42,−2.32))and enhanced behavioral outcomes in AD(SMD=3.26,95%CI(2.07,5.14))and PD(SMD=5.37,95%CI(3.93,6.80)).Subgroup analyses revealed that Boswellia extract exhibited superior efficacy in AD when administered orally and via intra-cerebroventricular injection.Long-term treatment with Boswellia extract suggested potential neurorestorative effects.Additionally,Boswellia extract was more effective than its monomeric constituents,highlighting its promising role in ND treatment.Conclusion:Boswellia extract demonstrates significant neuroprotective effects across various NDs,particularly in AD and in promoting long-term neurorestoration.These findings support the need for further research into Boswellia’s potential as a therapeutic agent in the management of neurological disorders.