Malva parviflora extract ameliorates the deleterious effects of a high fat diet on the cognitive deficit in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease by restoring microglial function via a PPAR-γ-dependent mechanism.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is linked to inflammation, worsened by obesity. Using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can lower the risk of AD, but have side effects. Malva parviflora, a plant with anti-inflammatory properties, is a potential therapeutic option.

Medrano-Jiménez E et al (2019).

J Neuroinflammation.

DOI:

10.1186/s12974-019-1515-3

PubMed:

31291963

Evaluation of prolyl oligopeptidase and acetylcholinesterase inhibition by Phyllanthus tenellus Roxb. from Brazil.

Dos Santos MZ et al (2021).

Nat Prod Res.

DOI:

10.1080/14786419.2019.1637869

PubMed:

31282201

Uncaria rhynchophylla and its Major Constituents on Central Nervous System: A Review on Their Pharmacological Actions.

This study looked at the potential benefits of the herb Uncaria rhynchophylla in treating conditions affecting the central nervous system. This herb is commonly used in Chinese medicine to treat convulsions, hypertension, epilepsy, and other cerebral diseases. Researchers focused on the active components of the herb, including alkaloids, terpenoids, and flavonoids. The study found that U. rhynchophylla had protective effects on the CNS, supporting its use in traditional medicine. These findings suggest that the herb may have potential as a natural remedy for certain neurological conditions. Overall, further research is needed to fully understand the benefits of U. rhynchophylla for human health.

Yang W et al (2020).

Curr Vasc Pharmacol.

DOI:

10.2174/1570161117666190704092841

PubMed:

31272356

Natural product incarvillateine aggravates epileptic seizures by inhibiting GABA(A) currents.

Incarvillateine is a natural compound known for its pain-relieving properties. However, researchers have discovered that it worsens epileptic seizures by inhibiting a type of receptor in the brain called γ-Aminobutyric acid type A (GABA). The researchers conducted experiments on frog eggs and hippocampal slices, and also injected incarvillateine into the brains of rats. They found that the compound inhibited GABA currents and synaptic transmissions, leading to an increase in epileptic activity. This study sheds light on the molecular effects of incarvillateine and its potential negative impact on patients with epilepsy.

Bian X et al (2019).

Eur J Pharmacol.

DOI:

10.1016/j.ejphar.2019.172496

PubMed:

31242440

Effect of Aruncus dioicus var. kamtschaticus Extract on Neurodegeneration Improvement: Ameliorating Role in Cognitive Disorder Caused by High-Fat Diet Induced Obesity.

The study assessed the potential of an ethyl acetate fraction from var. (EFAD) on metabolic syndrome induced by a high-fat diet (HFD). Results showed that EFAD reduces lipid accumulation, improves insulin resistance, and has ameliorating effects on obesity-induced cognitive disorder, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction. In tests, EFAD significantly suppressed the increase of body weight and improved glucose tolerance in obese mice. The study confirmed that EFAD positively impacts the peripheral-IR and CNS-IR, which are factors in neurodegeneration such as Alzheimer's disease. The results suggest EFAD may be used for the prevention of neurodegeneration by improving metabolic syndrome caused by HFD.

Park SB et al (2019).

Nutrients.

DOI:

10.3390/nu11061319

PubMed:

31212845

Medicinal plants in traumatic brain injury: Neuroprotective mechanisms revisited.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is common and can cause problems in other organs. Researchers looked at studies using various plants to see if they could prevent or reduce TBI harm. Many plants showed promise in protecting neurons through different mechanisms, such as reducing inflammation. This study aimed to review the available literature on plants and neuroprotection to evaluate their potential for helping people with central nervous system problems.

Keshavarzi Z et al (2019).

Biofactors.

DOI:

10.1002/biof.1516

PubMed:

31206893

Anticonvulsant Activity of Viola tricolor against Seizures Induced by Pentylenetetrazol and Maximal Electroshock in Mice.

Scientists conducted a study to investigate the anticonvulsant effects of a medicinal plant on seizure models induced by two different methods. The medicinal plant showed potential as a therapy for human neurodegenerative diseases such as epilepsy. However, further research is needed to fully explore its effectiveness.

Baradaran Rahimi V et al (2019).

Iran J Med Sci.

PubMed:

31182888

Phylogeny and taxonomy of Podosphaera cerasi, sp. nov., and Podosphaera prunicola sensu lato.

Researchers in Washington, USA, have identified two distinct species of powdery mildew affecting cherry crops. Phylogenetic analyses of the genetic and morphological features of the mildew confirmed that one mildew strain previously classified as Blumeria graminis is in fact a new species, designated Blumeria graminis var. prunus. The researchers also confirmed that the two species are host-specific, and unable to colonize one another. The work has important implications for cherry growers in the country, who will need to ensure they differentiate between the two mildews to effectively manage the disease and protect their crops. This study is also notable as it includes the first recorded European instance of the powdery mildew strain on cherry crops, along with its widespread occurrence in the US.

Moparthi S et al (2019).

Mycologia.

DOI:

10.1080/00275514.2019.1611316

PubMed:

31161891