BHAGYA VENKANNA RAO

@klepharmblr.org

Associate Professor Department of Pharmacology
KLE College of Pharmacy, KAHER, Bengaluru

BHAGYA VENKANNA RAO


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https://researchid.co/bhagyavrao
Publications
1. V Bhagya, BN Srikumar, TR Raju and BS Shankaranarayana Rao (2008) Neonatal clomipramine induced endogenous depression in rats is associated with learning impairment in adulthood. Behavioural Brain Research 187: 190–194
2. Veena J, Srikumar BN, Mahati K, Bhagya V, Raju TR and Shankaranarayana Rao BS (2009) Enriched environment restores hippocampal cell proliferation and ameliorates cognitive deficits in chronically stressed rats. Journal of Neuroscience Research 87: 831–843
3. George Lekha, Bhagya P Kumar, Shankar Narayana Rao, Irudaya Arockiasamy and Karthik Mohan (2010) Cognitive enhancement and Neuroprotective effect of Celastrus paniculatus Willd. seed oil (Jyothismati oil) on male Wistar rats. Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology 2(2): 130-138
4. Bhagya V, Srikumar BN, Raju TR, Shankaranarayana Rao BS (2011) Chronic escitalopram treatment restores spatial learning, monoamine Levels and hippocampal long term potentiation in an animal model of depression.

EDUCATION

M Pharm (Pharmacology)
PhD (Neurophysiology)

RESEARCH INTERESTS

Neuronal Plasticity
Psychiatric disorders
Herbal remedies
24

Scopus Publications

946

Scholar Citations

10

Scholar h-index

10

Scholar i10-index

Scopus Publications

  • Neuroprotective Effect of Inula racemosa on Chronic Stress-Aluminum Chloride Induced Memory Deficits
    Bhagya Venkanna Rao, Kanimozhi Loganathan, Sushma Raju, Ramya Vasudev
    Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, 2026
  • Azadirachta indica A. Juss Ameliorates Memory Deficits and Reduces Anxiety-Like Behavior by Modulating Cholinergic Neurotransmission in an Animal Model of Depression: In Silico and In Vivo Studies
    Bhagya Venkanna Rao, Sahid Raza, Priyanka Tiwari
    Traditional and Integrative Medicine, 2025
    Exposure to prolonged and severe stress can lead to negative effects on learning and memory, increased anxiety, reduced motivation, disturbed cholinergic activity, and hippocampal and prefrontal cortical neuronal damage. On the other hand, drugs from natural origin have a beneficial effect on neuronal structure and functions. Azadirachta indica (neem), belonging to the Meliaceae family, has been reported to exhibit beneficial effects in wound healing, diabetes management, and antibacterial properties. This study aimed to assess the impact of Azadirachta indica on chronic immobilization stress-induced memory impairment in rats. Chronic immobilization stress was induced in rats for 2 hours/day over 10 days. Following this, Azadirachta indica was administered at doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg for 14 days. Twenty-four hours after the treatment, behavioral tests, including the novel object recognition test (NORT), T-maze, and elevated plus maze (EPM), were conducted to evaluate memory and anxiety-like behaviors. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was measured in the frontal cortex, hippocampus, and septum. Additionally, molecular docking studies were performed using Molegro Virtual Docker (MVD-2013, 6.0) to analyze the interaction of 19 active chemical constituents from aqueous neem extracts with various targets, including AChE, brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), N-methyl-D-aspartate(NMDA) receptors, and anti-cortisol Fab in complex with corticosterone. Azadirachta indica treatment significantly enhanced learning and memory in chronically stressed rats, as evidenced by improved performance in NORT and T-maze tests, along with reduced anxiety-like behavior in the EPM test. Treatment also restored AChE activity in the stressed animals. Molecular docking studies indicated that the active constituents of neem extract showed high docking scores to AChE, BDNF, NMDA receptors, and anti-cortisol Fab, correlating with the experimental findings. Azadirachta indica exhibited neuroprotective and cholinergic transmission modulation properties, which may underlie its memory-enhancing effects in chronically stressed rats. Treatment enhanced memory in NORT and T-maze test (p<0.001). Also, anxiety behavior was reduced in the EPM (p<0.001). The correlation between the in vitro experimental data and the in silico molecular docking results suggests that neem’s active compounds could be potential candidates for improving memory and managing stress-induced cognitive impairments.
  • The Gut-Brain Axis: Microbial and Medicinal Effects on Mental Health and Neurodegeneration
    Mohd. Sharique Katchhi, Bhagya Venkanna Rao, Babiker Bashir Haroun Baraka, Shilpa Borehalli Mayegowda
    Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology, 2025
    This comprehensive review explores the intricate connections between microbial entities and various neuropsychiatric disorders, revealing the profound impact of viruses, bacteria, and therapeutic drugs on mental health. Extensive research has uncovered compelling evidence linking microbial elements to conditions such as depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), dementia, and Alzheimer’s disease. Viral infections, including influenza A (H1N1), varicella-zoster virus, herpes simplex virus, and human immunodeficiency virus/received immune deficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS), are implicated in the development and exacerbation of depression and anxiety. The review delves into the neuroinflammatory mechanisms triggered by viruses, shedding light on their role in conditions like schizophrenia, Parkinson’s disease, and stroke. Moreover, bacterial involvement in psychiatric disorders is underscored, with dysbiosis in the gut microbiota associated with depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia. The dysregulation of neurotransmitter pathways and bidirectional communication along the gut-brain axis provides insights into the complex microbial modulation of mental health. Additionally, the review discusses the impact of therapeutic drugs on neuropsychiatric conditions, highlighting certain antiepileptic drugs, antibiotics, and other medications linked to increased risks of depression, anxiety, and cognitive issues. It emphasizes the importance of understanding the psychotropic effects of therapeutic drugs to optimize treatment strategies. Furthermore, investigations into the influence of microbes on neurodegenerative diseases reveal potential connections between the gut microbiota and conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. This review concludes by advocating for a holistic approach in psychiatry, recognizing the multifaceted role of viruses, microorganisms, and therapeutic medicines in shaping the landscape of neuropsychiatric disorders.
  • Indian classical Mohana Raga (instrumental music) overcomes anxiety, depression and memory impairment in chronic unpredictable mild stress rat model – A behavioural study
    Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge, 2025
  • Housing In An Enriched Environment Enhances The Neuroprotective Effect Of Celastrus Paniculatus And Tribulus Terrestris In An Animal Model Of Chronic Stress
    Babiker Bashir Haroun Barakaq, Bhagya Venkanna Rao, Tanuja Krishnamurthy, Ramya Vasudev
    Pharmacognosy Journal, 2025
    Enhances The Neuroprotective Effect Of Celastrus Paniculatus
  • Synergistic effect of Celastrus paniculatus and Tribulus terrestris against chronic immobilisation stress-induced memory impairment, BDNF level and neuroinflammation
    Babiker Bashir Haroun Baraka, Bhagya Venkanna Rao, Tanuja Krishnamurthy
    Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 2025
    Long-term stress exposure induces anxiety, depression, and cognitive impairment. Previous research has established a correlation between chronic stress, memory deficits, and behavioral changes linked to neuroinflammation. Studies in both preclinical and clinical settings have highlighted the remarkable protective characteristics of herbal medicines. This research seeks to explore the positive impacts of Celastrus paniculatus Willd. (CP) and Tribulus terrestris L. (TT) in an experimental model of depression. Wistar rats were exposed to stress for 2 hours per day for 10 days in immobilization bags. After the stress induction, these rats were orally administered CP oil (400 mg/kg/day) and an ethanolic extract of TT (250 mg/kg/day) for 2 weeks. The observed increase in anxiety-like behavior, depressive-like behavior, and memory impairment in stressed rats aligns with previous research linking chronic stress exposure with neuropsychiatric disorders and cognitive dysfunction. The elevation of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, along with decreased brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, further supports the involvement of neuroinflammation and neurotropic factors in stress-induced pathophysiology. The significant improvement in anxiety, depression, and memory deficits following CP and TT treatment suggests their potential as therapeutic agents against stress-related disorders. The restoration of BDNF levels and attenuation of neuroinflammation in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus underscore the mechanisms through which CP and TT exert their beneficial effects. Overall, our research highlights the importance of exploring natural compounds like CP and TT as potential adjunctive therapies for stress-related neuropsychiatric disorders, offering safer and potentially more accessible alternatives to conventional pharmacotherapy.
  • Environmental Enrichment and Metformin Combination Improves Cognitive Function through BDNF and HPA Axis in Chronically Stressed Rats
    V. Bhagya, K. Tilak, L. Kanimozhi, R. Sushma
    Current Alzheimer Research, 2025
    Introduction: Chronic stress is a major global health issue linked to conditions such as anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline. In rodent studies, chronic immobilization stress (CIS) is commonly used to investigate the neuropsychological effects of prolonged stress, leading to behaviours such as anhedonia, anxiety, and depressive-like symptoms. An enriched environment (EE) provides physical, cognitive, and sensory stimulation, which promotes social interaction, supports brain development, and can enhance the effectiveness of pharmacological treatments, improving overall therapeutic outcomes. Metformin, commonly prescribed for type 2 diabetes, has antidiabetic effects and helps reduce oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell death in the brain, which may contribute to its neuroprotective properties. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of metformin, an enriched environment (EE), and its combination in alleviating anxiety and depression-like behaviours, memory impairments, and metabolic changes. Materials and Methods: Rats were exposed to chronic immobilization stress (CIS) for 2 hours per day over a period of 10 days, followed by 14 days of treatment with metformin (200 mg/kg) and 6 hours of daily exposure to an enriched environment (EE). Behavioural tests, including the open field test (OFT), elevated plus maze (EPM), sucrose preference test (SPT), and novel object recognition test (NORT), were conducted. After completing the behavioural assessments, the animals were euthanized, and their plasma levels of corticosterone (CORT), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose were measured. Additionally, the concentration of brainderived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus was analysed. Results: Rats exposed to chronic immobilization stress (CIS) exhibited increased anxiety and depressive- like behaviours, as well as poor performance in the novel object recognition test (NORT). These behavioural changes were linked to elevated levels of plasma corticosterone (CORT), LDL, cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose, along with decreased HDL levels and lower hippocampal BDNF. Treatment with metformin, an enriched environment (EE), or their combination alleviated these effects, improving exploratory behaviour, sucrose preference, and recognition memory and reducing anxiety-like behaviours. These benefits were accompanied by increased hippocampal BDNF expression, elevated plasma HDL, and reduced levels of CORT, LDL, cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose. Discussion: The combination of metformin and an enriched environment completely restored cognitive impairment and metabolic alterations in chronic stress conditions. Metformin’s ability to improve energy metabolism and reduce oxidative stress could be further enhanced in an enriched environment, which promotes cognitive function and resilience to stress. Conclusion: Therefore, evidence suggests that EE can positively influence the outcomes of the neuroprotective effects of metformin and present promising therapeutic approaches for mitigating stress-induced behavioural and biochemical alterations.
  • Development, in vitro and in vivo evaluation of film forming solutions for transdermal drug delivery of Zaltoprofen
    Prajila Alayadan, Avichal Kumar, Sanjana S. Prakash, Babiker Bashir, V. Bhagya, et al.
    Journal of Biomaterials Science Polymer Edition, 2025
    Zaltoprofen (ZAL) is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) with a short half-life (∼2.8 h) due to extensive first pass metabolism. In this context, 16 different polymeric film forming solutions (PFFS) of ZAL were developed using different grades of Eudragits, Polyvinylpyrrolidones, Kollicoat MAE 100 P and Hydroxypropyl cellulose as film formers, and polyethylene glycol 400 as a plasticizer in equal parts of ethanol and isopropyl alcohol used as solvents. Of these solutions, F13 composed of Kollicoat MAE 100 P emerged as an optimal PFFS as it quickly formed a saturated film (10.25 ± 0.75 min) that displayed low drying time (3.00 ± 0.46 min), and high in vitro adhesion (2.67 ± 0.58). Ex vivo permeation studies conducted in Franz diffusion cell across porcine skin indicated that F13 displayed significantly higher (p < 0.001) steady state flux (8.64 ± 1.72 µg.cm-2.h-1), shorter lag time (∼3 h) and better skin content (2.55 ± 0.62 µg/mg) compared to other PFFS. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) proved the chemical integrity of ZAL in polymeric film formed from F13, while Differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and X-ray Diffractometry (XRD) proved the "anti-recrystallization potential" of PFFS. Anti-inflammatory studies in rats indicated that F13 significantly inhibited (ANOVA, p < 0.001) carrageenan induced paw edema for nearly 12 h compared to topical diclofenac used as standard. In addition, significantly elevated (ANOVA, p < 0.001) analgesic effect was noted in the hot plate test in rats treated with F13 compared to the standard for 12 h proving the superior efficacy of F13. Thus, PFFS by virtue of "in situ evaporative metamorphosis" induced supersaturation can be an attractive platform to deliver ZAL transdermally.
  • Escitalopram treatment ameliorates chronic immobilization stress-induced depressive behavior and cognitive deficits by modulating BDNF expression in the hippocampus
    Shilpa Borehalli Mayegowda, Bhagya Venkanna Rao, Byrathnahalli Suryanarayana Rao Shankaranarayana Rao
    Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science, 2024
    Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects 21% of the global population. Chronic exposure to stressful situations may affect the onset, progression, and biochemical alterations underlying MDD and associated cognitive impairments. Patients exhibiting MDD are mainly treated with several antidepressants; one is escitalopram, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. However, whether or not it mitigates chronic stress-induced cognitive deficits is unknown. The present study exposed rats to chronic immobilization stress (CIS) 2 hours/day for 10 days. Then, escitalopram (5 mg and 10 mg/kg i.p.) was administered for 14 days and subjected to the elevated plus maze, open field test, forced swim test, sucrose preference test, and radial arm maze task. A different set of animals were used to assess the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels in the hippocampus, frontal cortex, and amygdale. Our data suggest that escitalopram significantly protected CIS-induced spatial learning and memory deficits, behavioral depression, and anxiety. Furthermore, escitalopram (10 mg/kg) shows a remarkable recovery of dentate gyrus and hippocampal atrophy. In addition, the restoration of molecular markers BDNF, VEGF, and GFAP expression is also implicated in the neuroprotective mechanisms of escitalopram. Our results suggested that esciatlorpam restores cognitive impairments in stressed rats by regulating neurotrophic factors and astrocytic markers.
  • Pre-exposure prophylactic mucoadhesive sodium alginate microsphere laden pessaries for intravaginal delivery of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate
    Dhruti Avlani, H.N. Shivakumar, Avichal Kumar, A. Prajila, Babiker Bashir Haroun Baraka, et al.
    International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 2024
  • Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Centella asiatica L. Possesses Nephroprotection in an Animal Model of Nephrotoxicity
    Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, 2024
  • Bionanomaterials in Improving Food Quality and Safety
    B.K. Nithin Gowda, Bhagya Venkanna Rao, Shilpa Borehalli Mayegowda
    Bionanomaterials for Industrial Applications, 2024
  • Exposure to an enriched environment promotes dendritic remodelling in hippocampal neurons affected by endogenous depression
    Shankaranarayana Rao
    Indian Journal of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 2022
  • Natural and Synthetic Sources of Phenolic Antioxidants
    Health Benefits of Phenolic Antioxidants, 2022
  • A Scientific Evidence-based Review of Tamarind usage in Indian Folklore Medicine
    Mohan Maruga Raja, S. Poonguzhali, Bhagya V. Rao, Antara Choudhury, Agilandeswari Devarajan
    Journal of Natural Remedies, 2022
  • Antioxidant action of grape seed polyphenols and aerobic exercise in improving neuronal number in the hippocampus is associated with decrease in lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide in adult and middle-aged rats
    S. Abhijit, Sunil Jamuna Tripathi, V. Bhagya, B.S. Shankaranarayana Rao, Muthangi V. Subramanyam, et al.
    Experimental Gerontology, 2018
  • Short-term exposure to enriched environment rescues chronic stress-induced impaired hippocampal synaptic plasticity, anxiety, and memory deficits
    Venkanna Rao Bhagya, Bettadapura N. Srikumar, Jayagopalan Veena, Byrathnahalli S. Shankaranarayana Rao
    Journal of Neuroscience Research, 2017
  • Environmental enrichment ameliorates chronic immobilisation stress-induced spatial learning deficits and restores the expression of BDNF, VEGF, GFAP and glucocorticoid receptors
    BM Shilpa, V Bhagya, G Harish, MM Srinivas Bharath, BS Shankaranarayana Rao
    Progress in Neuro Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry, 2017
  • Neuroprotective effect of Celastrus paniculatus on chronic stress-induced cognitive impairment
    V Bhagya, Thomas Christofer, BS Shankaranarayana Rao
    Indian Journal of Pharmacology, 2016
  • Enriched environment ameliorates depression-induced cognitive deficits and restores abnormal hippocampal synaptic plasticity
    K. Mahati, V. Bhagya, T. Christofer, A. Sneha, B.S. Shankaranarayana Rao
    Neurobiology of Learning and Memory, 2016
  • The selective noradrenergic reuptake inhibitor reboxetine restores spatial learning deficits, biochemical changes, and hippocampal synaptic plasticity in an animal model of depression
    V. Bhagya, B.N. Srikumar, T.R. Raju, B.S. Shankaranarayana Rao
    Journal of Neuroscience Research, 2015
  • Chronic escitalopram treatment restores spatial learning, monoamine levels, and hippocampal long-term potentiation in an animal model of depression
    V. Bhagya, B. N. Srikumar, T. R. Raju, B. S. Shankaranarayana Rao
    Psychopharmacology, 2011
  • Enriched environment restores hippocampal cell proliferation and ameliorates cognitive deficits in chronically stressed rats
    J. Veena, B. N. Srikumar, K. Mahati, V. Bhagya, T. R. Raju, et al.
    Journal of Neuroscience Research, 2009
  • Neonatal clomipramine induced endogenous depression in rats is associated with learning impairment in adulthood
    V. Bhagya, B.N. Srikumar, T.R. Raju, B.S. Shankaranarayana Rao
    Behavioural Brain Research, 2008

RECENT SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

  • Neuroprotective Effect of Inula racemosa on Chronic Stress-Aluminum Chloride Induced Memory Deficits.
    BV Rao, K Loganathan, S Raju, R Vasudev
    Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education & Research 60 (1), 258 , 2026
    2026
  • Azadirachta indica A. Juss Ameliorates Memory Deficits and Reduces Anxiety-Like Behavior by Modulating Cholinergic Neurotransmission in an Animal Model of Depression: In Silico …
    BV Rao, S Raza, P Tiwari
    Traditional and Integrative Medicine, 241-257 , 2025
    2025
  • The Gut-Brain Axis: Microbial and Medicinal Effects on Mental Health and Neurodegeneration
    MS Katchhi, BV Rao, BBH Baraka, SB Mayegowda
    Journal of Pure and Applied Microbiology 19 (2), 780-794 , 2025
    2025
  • Indian classical Mohana raga (instrumental music) overcomes anxiety, depression and memory impairment in chronic unpredictable mild stress rat model–A behavioural study: MUSIC …
    T Krishnamurthy, BV Rao
    Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge (IJTK) 24 (4), 319-328 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 1
  • Housing In An Enriched Environment Enhances The Neuroprotective Effect Of Celastrus Paniculatus And Tribulus Terrestris In An Animal Model Of Chronic Stress.
    BB Haroun Baraka, BV Rao, T Krishnamurthy, R Vasudev
    Pharmacognosy Journal 17 (2) , 2025
    2025
  • Synergistic effect of Celastrus paniculatus and Tribulus terrestris against chronic immobilisation stress-induced memory impairment, BDNF level and neuroinflammation
    BBH Baraka, BV Rao, T Krishnamurthy
    Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 15 (2), 215-223 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 3
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases, Psychiatric Conditions, and Cancer: Interconnections and Shared Pathways
    MS Katchhi, A Oomatia, BS Bhandari, BV Rao
    International Journal of Indian Psychȯlogy 12 (4) , 2024
    2024
  • Bionanomaterials in Improving Food Quality and Safety
    BKN Gowda, BV Rao, SB Mayegowda
    Bionanomaterials for Industrial Applications, 149-164 , 2024
    2024
  • Escitalopram treatment ameliorates chronic immobilization stress-induced depressive behavior and cognitive deficits by modulating BDNF expression in the hippocampus
    SB Mayegowda, BV Rao, BSRS Rao
    Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 14 (3), 170-182 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 8
  • Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Centella asiatica L. Possesses Nephroprotection in an Animal Model of Nephrotoxicity.
    BV Rao, RH Beera Heggade, HH Jagannath
    Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education & Research 58 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 2
  • Androgenetic alopecia: Update on etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment
    BBH Baraka, BV Rao, CS Karadi, SV Gowda, R Kumar
    2024
    Citations: 1
  • Neuropharmacological and Cognitive Effects of Celastrus paniculatus – A Comprehensive Review
    VR Bhagya, J Sriranjini
    Int. J. Pharm. Sci. Rev. Res 65 (1), 92-97 , 2020
    2020
    Citations: 7
  • Antioxidant action of grape seed polyphenols and aerobic exercise in improving neuronal number in the hippocampus is associated with decrease in lipid peroxidation and hydrogen …
    S Abhijit, SJ Tripathi, V Bhagya, BSS Rao, MV Subramanyam, SA Devi
    Experimental gerontology 101, 101-112 , 2018
    2018
    Citations: 46
  • Short‐term exposure to enriched environment rescues chronic stress‐induced impaired hippocampal synaptic plasticity, anxiety, and memory deficits
    VR Bhagya, BN Srikumar, J Veena, BS Shankaranarayana Rao
    Journal of Neuroscience Research 95 (8), 1602-1610 , 2017
    2017
    Citations: 122
  • Environmental enrichment ameliorates chronic immobilisation stress-induced spatial learning deficits and restores the expression of BDNF, VEGF, GFAP and glucocorticoid receptors
    BM Shilpa, V Bhagya, G Harish, MMS Bharath, BSS Rao
    Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry 76, 88-100 , 2017
    2017
    Citations: 138
  • Neuroprotective effect of Celastrus paniculatus on chronic stress-induced cognitive impairment
    V Bhagya, T Christofer, BSS Rao
    Indian journal of pharmacology 48 (6), 687-693 , 2016
    2016
    Citations: 67
  • Enriched environment ameliorates depression-induced cognitive deficits and restores abnormal hippocampal synaptic plasticity
    K Mahati, V Bhagya, T Christofer, A Sneha, BSS Rao
    Neurobiology of learning and memory 134, 379-391 , 2016
    2016
    Citations: 115
  • REMOVED: Neonatal clomipramine decreases adult hippocampal cell proliferation and impairs spatial navigation in adult male Wistar rats
    V Bhagya, K Mahati, S Kundu, BSS Rao, TR Raju
    International Journal of Developmental Neuroscience 47, 35 , 2015
    2015
  • The selective noradrenergic reuptake inhibitor reboxetine restores spatial learning deficits, biochemical changes, and hippocampal synaptic plasticity in an animal model of …
    V Bhagya, BN Srikumar, TR Raju, BS Shankaranarayana Rao
    Journal of Neuroscience Research 93 (1), 104-120 , 2015
    2015
    Citations: 41
  • Herbal remedies to treat anxiety disorders
    BV Rao, BN Srikumar, BSS Rao
    Different Views of Anxiety Disorders 273 , 2011
    2011
    Citations: 9

MOST CITED SCHOLAR PUBLICATIONS

  • Enriched environment restores hippocampal cell proliferation and ameliorates cognitive deficits in chronically stressed rats
    J Veena, BN Srikumar, K Mahati, V Bhagya, TR Raju, ...
    Journal of neuroscience research 87 (4), 831-843 , 2009
    2009
    Citations: 187
  • Environmental enrichment ameliorates chronic immobilisation stress-induced spatial learning deficits and restores the expression of BDNF, VEGF, GFAP and glucocorticoid receptors
    BM Shilpa, V Bhagya, G Harish, MMS Bharath, BSS Rao
    Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry 76, 88-100 , 2017
    2017
    Citations: 138
  • Short‐term exposure to enriched environment rescues chronic stress‐induced impaired hippocampal synaptic plasticity, anxiety, and memory deficits
    VR Bhagya, BN Srikumar, J Veena, BS Shankaranarayana Rao
    Journal of Neuroscience Research 95 (8), 1602-1610 , 2017
    2017
    Citations: 122
  • Enriched environment ameliorates depression-induced cognitive deficits and restores abnormal hippocampal synaptic plasticity
    K Mahati, V Bhagya, T Christofer, A Sneha, BSS Rao
    Neurobiology of learning and memory 134, 379-391 , 2016
    2016
    Citations: 115
  • Chronic escitalopram treatment restores spatial learning, monoamine levels, and hippocampal long-term potentiation in an animal model of depression
    V Bhagya, BN Srikumar, TR Raju, BS Shankaranarayana Rao
    Psychopharmacology 214 (2), 477-494 , 2011
    2011
    Citations: 91
  • Neuroprotective effect of Celastrus paniculatus on chronic stress-induced cognitive impairment
    V Bhagya, T Christofer, BSS Rao
    Indian journal of pharmacology 48 (6), 687-693 , 2016
    2016
    Citations: 67
  • Neonatal clomipramine induced endogenous depression in rats is associated with learning impairment in adulthood
    V Bhagya, BN Srikumar, TR Raju, BSS Rao
    Behavioural brain research 187 (1), 190-194 , 2008
    2008
    Citations: 63
  • Antioxidant action of grape seed polyphenols and aerobic exercise in improving neuronal number in the hippocampus is associated with decrease in lipid peroxidation and hydrogen …
    S Abhijit, SJ Tripathi, V Bhagya, BSS Rao, MV Subramanyam, SA Devi
    Experimental gerontology 101, 101-112 , 2018
    2018
    Citations: 46
  • The selective noradrenergic reuptake inhibitor reboxetine restores spatial learning deficits, biochemical changes, and hippocampal synaptic plasticity in an animal model of …
    V Bhagya, BN Srikumar, TR Raju, BS Shankaranarayana Rao
    Journal of Neuroscience Research 93 (1), 104-120 , 2015
    2015
    Citations: 41
  • Cognitive enhancement and Neuroprotective effect of Celastrus paniculatus Willd. seed oil (Jyothismati oil) on male Wistar rats
    G Lekha, BP Kumar, SN Rao, I Arockiasamy, K Mohan
    Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology 2 (2), 130-138 , 2010
    2010
    Citations: 41
  • Herbal remedies to treat anxiety disorders
    BV Rao, BN Srikumar, BSS Rao
    Different Views of Anxiety Disorders 273 , 2011
    2011
    Citations: 9
  • Escitalopram treatment ameliorates chronic immobilization stress-induced depressive behavior and cognitive deficits by modulating BDNF expression in the hippocampus
    SB Mayegowda, BV Rao, BSRS Rao
    Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 14 (3), 170-182 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 8
  • Neuropharmacological and Cognitive Effects of Celastrus paniculatus – A Comprehensive Review
    VR Bhagya, J Sriranjini
    Int. J. Pharm. Sci. Rev. Res 65 (1), 92-97 , 2020
    2020
    Citations: 7
  • Herbal Remedies to Treat Anxiety Disorders, Different Views of Anxiety Disorders
    BV Rao, BN Srikumar, BS Rao
    InTech, Rijeka, Croatia , 2011
    2011
    Citations: 4
  • Synergistic effect of Celastrus paniculatus and Tribulus terrestris against chronic immobilisation stress-induced memory impairment, BDNF level and neuroinflammation
    BBH Baraka, BV Rao, T Krishnamurthy
    Journal of Applied Pharmaceutical Science 15 (2), 215-223 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 3
  • Ethanolic Leaf Extract of Centella asiatica L. Possesses Nephroprotection in an Animal Model of Nephrotoxicity.
    BV Rao, RH Beera Heggade, HH Jagannath
    Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education & Research 58 , 2024
    2024
    Citations: 2
  • Indian classical Mohana raga (instrumental music) overcomes anxiety, depression and memory impairment in chronic unpredictable mild stress rat model–A behavioural study: MUSIC …
    T Krishnamurthy, BV Rao
    Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge (IJTK) 24 (4), 319-328 , 2025
    2025
    Citations: 1
  • Androgenetic alopecia: Update on etiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis and treatment
    BBH Baraka, BV Rao, CS Karadi, SV Gowda, R Kumar
    2024
    Citations: 1
  • Neuroprotective Effect of Inula racemosa on Chronic Stress-Aluminum Chloride Induced Memory Deficits.
    BV Rao, K Loganathan, S Raju, R Vasudev
    Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Education & Research 60 (1), 258 , 2026
    2026
  • Azadirachta indica A. Juss Ameliorates Memory Deficits and Reduces Anxiety-Like Behavior by Modulating Cholinergic Neurotransmission in an Animal Model of Depression: In Silico …
    BV Rao, S Raza, P Tiwari
    Traditional and Integrative Medicine, 241-257 , 2025
    2025

Publications

Publications
1. V Bhagya, BN Srikumar, TR Raju and BS Shankaranarayana Rao (2008) Neonatal clomipramine induced endogenous depression in rats is associated with learning impairment in adulthood. Behavioural Brain Research 187: 190–194
2. Veena J, Srikumar BN, Mahati K, Bhagya V, Raju TR and Shankaranarayana Rao BS (2009) Enriched environment restores hippocampal cell proliferation and ameliorates cognitive deficits in chronically stressed rats. Journal of Neuroscience Research 87: 831–843
3. George Lekha, Bhagya P Kumar, Shankar Narayana Rao, Irudaya Arockiasamy and Karthik Mohan (2010) Cognitive enhancement and Neuroprotective effect of Celastrus paniculatus Willd. seed oil (Jyothismati oil) on male Wistar rats. Journal of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology 2(2): 130-138
4. Bhagya V, Srikumar BN, Raju TR, Shankaranarayana Rao BS (2011) Chronic escitalopram treatment restores spatial learning, monoamine Levels and hippocampal long term potentiation in an animal model of depression. Psychopharamcology (Berl) 214:477–494
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