Neuroscience Studies

Phytochemical screening and effect of Viscum album L. on monoamine oxidase A and B activity and serotonin, dopamine and serotonin receptor 5-HTR1A levels in Galleria mellonealla (Lepidoptera).

European mistletoe has been traditionally used for central nervous system disorders, but little is known about its neuropharmacological activity. This study aims to investigate the effects of Viscum album L. on motor and anxiety-related behavior in mice. The study found that the extract of mistletoe had a significant calming effect on the mice, reducing anxiety and improving motor behaviors. This highlights the potential neuropharmacological activity of European mistletoe in treating CNS disorders.

Szurpnicka A et al (2022).
J Ethnopharmacol.
PubMed:
35944736

Study on Components with Neuroinflammation Inhibitory Activities from Croton tiglium L. var. xiaopadou.

Researchers found a new compound, along with 33 others, in the stems of a plant called Croton tiglium L. var. xiaopadou. They tested the compounds on microglia, a type of cell in the brain related to inflammation, and found that 13 of the compounds reduced inflammation. Four of the compounds, specifically 10, 16, 18, and 21, were particularly effective and had a similar effect as a positive control drug called minocycline. These findings suggest that these compounds could potentially be used to treat brain inflammation in the future.

Zhang Y et al (2022).
Chem Biodivers.
PubMed:
35931661

Protective effects of isofraxidin against scopolamine-induced cognitive and memory impairments in mice involve modulation of the BDNF-CREB-ERK signaling pathway.

Isofraxidin is a molecule found in plants that are useful for brain diseases. It is extracted from plants like Sarcandra glabra, Apium graveolens, and Siberian Ginseng.

Lian B et al (2022).
Metab Brain Dis.
PubMed:
35921056

Neuroprotective Profile of Edible Flowers of Borage (Borago officinalis L.) in Two Different Models: Caenorhabditis elegans and Neuro-2a Cells.

A study aimed to evaluate the benefits of fresh borage flower extract, commonly used in culinary, on antioxidant, neuroprotective, and anti-aging properties. The extract was obtained using ethanol as a solvent and had high amounts of polyunsaturated fatty acids. In vitro assays showed promising antioxidant activity. The extract was also subjected to oxidative stress, resulting in better responses to mitochondrial activity, redox state, and antioxidant enzymes. The study concluded that the extract has potential antioxidant properties without causing toxicity, supporting its benefits in living organisms.

Moliner C et al (2022).
Antioxidants (Basel).
PubMed:
35883735

Bioactive Components from Ampelopsis japonica with Antioxidant, Anti-α-Glucosidase, and Antiacetylcholinesterase Activities.

Researchers studied the antioxidant activity of different solvent extracts from the dried root of Pueraria lobata to determine their potential as natural medicine. They found that the acetone extract had strong antioxidant properties and inhibited α-glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Through HPLC analysis, the researchers isolated seven active compounds, including catechin and quercetin, which showed stronger antioxidant capacity than butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT). The isolated compounds also had good inhibitory effects on AChE. This study suggests that Pueraria lobata and its active extracts and components may be a promising source of natural antioxidants and inhibitors of α-glucosidase and AChE.

Liang JH et al (2022).
Antioxidants (Basel).
PubMed:
35883719