Neuroscience Studies

Chemical Composition of Essential Oils of Seven Polygonum Species from Turkey: A Chemotaxonomic Approach.

Aromatic plant genus Polygonum, used in various cuisines, was analyzed for chemical composition in the essential oils of seven species. The study found qualitative and quantitative differences among the species and identified major compounds, including (E)-β-farnesene, dodecanal, and β-caryophyllene. This is the most comprehensive study to determine essential oil components of Polygonum species, with new findings revealed. Medicinal plant use is prevalent and understanding the chemical makeup of these plants can inform treatment of various diseases.

Demirpolat A et al (2022).
Molecules.
PubMed:
36558187

Verbenalin Reduces Amyloid-Beta Peptide Generation in Cellular and Animal Models of Alzheimer's Disease.

Verbenalin, found in a medicinal plant, has been shown to reduce the production of amyloid-beta (Aβ) peptide in Alzheimer's disease (AD) animal models. In vitro and in vivo experiments displayed decreased levels of Aβ and tau expression in animals treated with verbenalin. Additionally, verbenalin restored the expression of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus, suggesting it may improve the pathological hallmarks of AD. The findings propose that verbenalin can decrease Aβ formation and aid in treating AD.

Lim J et al (2022).
Molecules.
PubMed:
36557811

Caucasian Blueberry: Comparative Study of Phenolic Compounds and Neuroprotective and Antioxidant Potential of Vaccinium myrtillus and Vaccinium arctostaphylos Leaves.

Leaf extracts of two Caucasian blueberry bushes, L. and L., were analyzed for phenolic compounds and their potential neurotropic effects were studied. Hydroxycinnamates and flavonoids were identified, with 5-caffeoylquinic acid being the dominant metabolite. The extracts improved cerebral hemodynamics, reduced brain tissue necrosis, and increased antioxidant enzyme activity. The study suggests that the extracts can be used as therapeutic agents in treating neurological diseases.

Shamilov AA et al (2022).
Life (Basel).
PubMed:
36556444

Carob Seed Peels Effect on Cognitive Impairment and Oxidative Stress Status in Methionine-Induced Mice Models of Schizophrenia.

Carob seed peels (CSP) were orally administered to mice to evaluate their impact on the negative symptoms of schizophrenia. Behavioral tests were performed, and oxidative stress levels were evaluated by analyzing antioxidant enzyme levels. Both extracts showed remarkable antioxidant activity and proved to enhance cognitive impairment in animal models of schizophrenia while confirming the correlation between oxidative stress and psychiatric disorders. The study highlights the use of natural antioxidants in the improvement of cognitive impairment in schizophrenia.

Lakkab I et al (2022).
Brain Sci.
PubMed:
36552121

Jujuboside B inhibits febrile seizure by modulating AMPA receptor activity.

The study investigated the potential neuroprotective effects of Jujuboside B (JuB) on febrile seizures in children under the age of five. JuB is a bioactive component found in Ziziphi Spinosae Semen, a Chinese herbal medicine commonly used for insomnia. Results showed that JuB reduced the frequency and duration of febrile seizures in a preclinical mouse model. These findings suggest that JuB has the potential to be used as a treatment for febrile seizures in young children.

Jin B et al (2023).
J Ethnopharmacol.
PubMed:
36549370

Investigation of the mechanism of tanshinone IIA to improve cognitive function via synaptic plasticity in epileptic rats.

Tanshinone IIA, extracted from Bunge, has potential as an anticonvulsant and cognition-protective treatment for cardiovascular disorders.

Jia C et al (2023).
Pharm Biol.
PubMed:
36548216

Taxonomy and Multigene Phylogeny of Diaporthales in Guizhou Province, China.

Researchers in China have identified 23 strains of fungi belonging to nine species from plant material in Guizhou Province. Through gene sequence data and morphological analysis, they discovered a new fungus genus and five new species, including a previously unknown species in China. These findings could help improve our knowledge and understanding of the diversity of fungi in the region.

Wang SY et al (2022).
J Fungi (Basel).
PubMed:
36547633

In vitro and in vivo anti-seizure activity of hydromethanolic extract and fractions of Pterolobium stellatum.

Researchers investigated the anti-convulsant properties of P. stellatum by inducing seizures in rats and measuring their response to the plant extract. Results showed that the extract had a significant anti-seizure effect. The study suggests that P. stellatum may be a promising natural alternative for treating seizures, potentially having fewer side effects than current medications.

Salile SS et al (2023).
J Ethnopharmacol.
PubMed:
36543277