Neuroscience Studies

The modulatory effects of alkaloid extracts of Cannabis sativa, Datura stramonium, Nicotiana tabacum and male Carica papaya on neurotransmitter, neurotrophic and neuroinflammatory systems linked to anxiety and depression.

This study examined the effects of extracts from different plants on anxiety and depression in rats. The extracts were administered orally in varying doses for 90 days. The results showed that extracts from Cannabis sativa, Nicotiana tabacum, and male Carica papaya had anxiolytic and antidepressant properties. These extracts reduced inflammation and promoted the activity of certain neurotransmitters linked to mood regulation. However, extracts from Datura stramonium and high doses of the other extracts had adverse effects. Overall, these extracts may have therapeutic potential, but may also lead to dependence and addiction.

Fasakin OW et al (2022).
Inflammopharmacology.
PubMed:
35665872

Neurobehavioral and Biochemical Evidences in Support of Protective Effect of Marrubiin (Furan Labdane Diterpene) from Marrubium vulgare Linn. and Its Extracts after Traumatic Brain Injury in Experimental Mice.

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can cause severe health problems. Researchers have found that the plant Linn. and its compound marrubiin have potential neuroprotective effects. In this study, marrubiin and hydroalcoholic extracts of the plant were used to test their effectiveness on TBI. The samples showed significant improvements in neurological severity score, oxidative stress parameters, and neurotransmitter levels. The study suggests that the plant extract could be beneficial in the treatment of TBI due to the presence of marrubiin and other secondary metabolites.

Nidhi et al (2022).
Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.
PubMed:
35656476

Mangifera indica 'Namdokmai' Prevents Neuronal Cells from Amyloid Peptide Toxicity and Inhibits BACE-1 Activities in a Drosophila Model of Alzheimer's Amyloidosis.

This study looked at the potential of ten tropical fruits to treat Alzheimer's disease. The top three fruits with the most promise were further investigated and found to reduce neurotoxicity and improve behavior in a rat model. One of the fruits, 'Namdokmai', showed particular promise in inhibiting the formation of Aβ peptides, a key feature of Alzheimer's disease. These results suggest the potential for natural products as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease.

Temviriyanukul P et al (2022).
Pharmaceuticals (Basel).
PubMed:
35631418

Mucuna pruriens Seed Aqueous Extract Improved Neuroprotective and Acetylcholinesterase Inhibitory Effects Compared with Synthetic L-Dopa.

The study investigated the use of a traditional Ayurvedic medicine, Mucuna pruriens, as an anti-Parkinson's agent due to the toxicity of current treatment options. The study found that the seed extract showed significant neuroprotective properties and inhibitory activity against acetylcholinesterase, a target in treating Parkinson's disease. The extract containing L-dopa was found to have a superior benefit compared to synthetic L-dopa. This implies that the administration of the seed extract may be a promising treatment option for neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases.

Kamkaen N et al (2022).
Molecules.
PubMed:
35630617

Astragalin and Isoquercitrin Isolated from Aster scaber Suppress LPS-Induced Neuroinflammatory Responses in Microglia and Mice.

Ast and Que, compounds found in chamchwi, were investigated for their anti-inflammatory effects in LPS-induced inflammation in microglial cells and the hippocampus of mice. LPS treatment increased cytotoxicity, NO production, antioxidant activity, ROS, iNOS expression, pro-inflammatory cytokines, and MAPK phosphorylation. Ast and Que reduced the production of NO, iNOS, and pro-inflammatory cytokines and inhibited MAPK kinase phosphorylation, which mediates inflammation. Ast and Que also inhibited LPS-induced ROS generation and increased radical scavenging. Overall, Ast and Que have anti-neuroinflammatory activity through down-regulation of MAPKs signaling pathways in LPS-activated microglia and the hippocampus of mice.

Kim EH et al (2022).
Foods.
PubMed:
35627075