CCAAT/enhancer-binding-protein beta (C/EBPβ) is a master transcription factor that orchestrates the "vicious cycle" of inflammation and protein misfolding (Luo et al., 2025). An upregulation of C/EBPβ results in microglial activation and its transcriptional control over proinflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, TNF-α) during Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease progression (Luo et al., 2025). Papain is a proteolytic enzyme derived from papaya latex, and possesses a strong biochemical stability and antioxidant potential, making it a compelling candidate for neuroprotection. There is a dearth of scientific information on the role of papain on scopolamine-induced dementia through the C/EBPβ-inflammasome axis. Hence, this study aims to explore the therapeutic potential of papain on this pathway.