DETERMINING THE EFFECTS OF GUARANA AND NAD+ ON CILIARY DYSFUNCTION OF DUGESIA TIGRINA

Abstract

The purpose of this experiment is to see how two different stimulants affect Dugesia tigrina locomotion: Paullinia cupana (Guarana) and Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). Because of its cilia-like hairs that allow it to move, Dugesia tigrina is an ideal specimen for locomotion research. The planarian body's abundance of cilia and remarkable accessibility make it an intriguing experimental model system for cilia biology. They move by secreting a mucous covering that coats their bodies and allows them to glide around submerged surfaces. Scientists have utilized these species to evaluate dependency since they have a genuine brain that can induce effects similar to neurological impairments in people. Paullinia cupana, a neurological stimulant, was employed in this investigation. Caffeine is primarily responsible for the stimulating effect of energy drinks. One of these components is Paullinia cupana. Paullinia cupana is a plant whose seeds have four times the caffeine content of coffee beans. Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide is required for a number of cellular processes such as energy generation and repair. A reduction in motility produced by Paullinia cupana or NAD+ may suggest ciliary dysfunction.  It was concluded that the Paullinia cupana stimulant increased the locomotion of Dugesia Tigrina, and therefore performed the best out of the experimental groups. The control group (natural spring water), however, proved to be the overall best solution for mobility. The knowledge gathered from the experiment can be used to bring deeper insight into the field of neurodegenerative studies in translational medicine.