Estrogen Receptor β Mediated Neuroprotective Efficacy of Cicer microphyllum Seed Extract in Global Hypoxia.

Researchers investigated the potential of Cicer microphyllum seed extract (CSE) to reduce neurodegeneration and improve memory in rats exposed to chronic hypoxia (low oxygen levels). CSE reduced neurodegeneration and dendritic atrophy in CA1 neurons and improved memory in hypoxic rats. This was attributed to antioxidant activity, activation of estrogen receptor beta (ERβ), and phosphorylation of extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK1/2), resulting in increased expression of PSD-95. CSE also promoted dendritic arborization and independent of brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) mediated signalling mechanisms. The findings suggest the neuroprotective potential of CSE in hypoxia and provide evidence for involvement of estrogen receptor and pCREB-mediated nootropic effect of the extract. Toxicological studies show that CSE is safe for consumption.

Sharma D et al (2017).

Neurochem Res.

DOI:

10.1007/s11064-017-2395-5

PubMed:

28861754

Aralia elata inhibits neurodegeneration by downregulating O-GlcNAcylation of NF-κB in diabetic mice.

Kim SJ et al (2017).

Int J Ophthalmol.

DOI:

10.18240/ijo.2017.08.03

PubMed:

28861343

Effects of Ecballium elaterium on brain in a rat model of sepsis-associated encephalopathy.

Researchers studied the effects of Ecballium elaterium (EE) on sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE), a major clinical challenge in intensive care units. They induced SAE in 30 rats with cecal ligation and puncture (CLP), then divided them into three groups: control, sepsis, and treatment. The treatment group received 2.5 mg/kg of EE. After 24 hours, the brain tissue was analyzed for levels of cytokines, antioxidants, and inflammation. The treatment group showed a statistically significant reduction in brain tissue levels of proinflammatory cytokines and a decrease in histopathologic changes associated with SAE. EE contains components that may help protect against SAE by reducing inflammation.

Arslan D et al (2017).

Libyan J Med.

DOI:

10.1080/19932820.2017.1369834

PubMed:

28859554

Passiflora cincinnata Extract Delays the Development of Motor Signs and Prevents Dopaminergic Loss in a Mice Model of Parkinson's Disease.

A study investigated the effects of an ethanolic extract of the Brazilian passionflower plant on mice with a progressive model of Parkinson's disease induced by reserpine. Results showed that the treatment delayed the onset of motor impairments and prevented increased catalepsy behavior in the premotor phase, as well as the decrease in tyrosine hydroxylase immunostaining in the substantia nigra pars compacta. However, it did not modify reserpine-induced cognitive impairments. These findings suggest that the passionflower extract may have a neuroprotective effect on PD.

Brandão LEM et al (2017).

Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.

DOI:

10.1155/2017/8429290

PubMed:

28835767

Areca catechu (palm tree) nut chewing and seizures: An observational study.

Researchers conducted a study to examine the effects of chronic abuse of Areca catechu nut (doma, quid, paan) on people with epilepsy. The nut is the fourth most commonly abused psychoactive substance in the world. Results showed a significant increase in seizure frequency among those who abused the nut compared to those who did not. The study highlights the harmful effects of this popular substance and reinforces the importance of prevention and education efforts.

Mateen FJ et al (2017).

Epilepsy Behav.

DOI:

10.1016/j.yebeh.2017.06.028

PubMed:

28732258

Antiepileptogenic and Neuroprotective Effects of Pergularia daemia on Pilocarpine Model of Epilepsy.

Researchers investigated the effects of a plant extract called PDR on epilepsy and neuroprotection. They conducted experiments on mice and rat brain cells and found that chronic oral administration of PDR increased the time it took for seizures to occur and improved memory. PDR also increased antioxidant and acetylcholinesterase activities in the hippocampus and increased survival rates of primary cortical neurons after being exposed to a toxin. These results suggest that PDR may have potential in treating epilepsy and protecting the brain from damage.

Kandeda AK et al (2017).

Front Pharmacol.

DOI:

10.3389/fphar.2017.00440

PubMed:

28713279

PROTECTIVE EFFECT OF IRIS GERMANICA L. IN Β-AMYLOID-INDUCED ANIMAL MODEL OF ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE.

The study looked at whether an extract could improve memory impairment caused by a key protein in Alzheimer's disease. The extract showed therapeutic effects in reducing Aβ-induced memory impairment. This study could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

Borhani M et al (2017).

Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med.

DOI:

10.21010/ajtcam.v14i4.17

PubMed:

28638877

Neuroprotective and Anti-Aging Potentials of Essential Oils from Aromatic and Medicinal Plants.

Essential oils (EOs) have been used for a long time in traditional medicine and aromatherapy to manage various diseases. Researchers worldwide have studied the neuroprotective and anti-aging potentials of EOs and their possible mechanisms of action. This review summarizes the current findings on EOs tested against neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and dementia, as well as anxiety, depression, and cognitive dysfunction. EOs have been effective on several pathological targets and improved cognitive performance in animal models and humans. Therefore, EOs may be developed as multi-potent agents against neurological disorders with better efficacy, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

Ayaz M et al (2017).

Front Aging Neurosci.

DOI:

10.3389/fnagi.2017.00168

PubMed:

28611658