THE COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF LOCOMOTOR/EXPLORATORY BEHAVIOUR FOLLOWING CHRONIC CONSUMPTION OF BEANS DIET (Vigna unguiculata) IN MICE

Purpose: The effects of chronic consumption of beans (Vigna unguiculata) diet commonly called iron beans on locomotor/exploratory behaviour were investigated. Forty adult Swiss white mice (18-30g body weight), were used for the study.Method: The open field maze and light and dark transition box were employed for the evaluation of locomotor/exploratory behaviour. Forty (40) CD1 mice were randomly assigned into four groups, viz; control, cooked beans diet (50% w/w), uncooked beans diet (50% w/w), while another set of mice were placed on serotonin precursor (5-HTP) diet (0.2mg/50g w/w) for thirty days. All animals were allowed free access to clean drinking water. Daily food intake, water intake and body weight change were measured. Before the neurobehavioural parameters were assessed, the phytochemical analysis of the beans, LD50 of the beans and that of the serotonin precursor (5-HTP) was determined. Serotonin and serotonin precursor (5-HTP) concentration were measured in beans using High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis.Results: The frequency of rearing in the open field was not significantly different in the beans and serotonin precursor fed group compared to control. However, the frequency of line crosses, stretch attend posture and walling activity were decreased in the test group (p<0.05) compared to control. This indicates a decreased locomotor/exploratory behavior in the test group. There was also a significant (p<0.05) decrease in the frequency of transition in the light/dark transition box for beans and serotonin precursor fed group when compared to the control.Conclusion: In conclusion, chronic consumption of beans diet decreases locomotor and exploratory behaviour.