Neuroscience Studies

Anti-Neuroinflammatory ent-Kaurane Diterpenoids from Pteris multifida Roots.

Researchers have discovered potential new compounds that could serve as anti-neuroinflammatory agents by inhibiting the production of nitric oxide in activated microglia cells. The compounds were isolated from the roots of the Pteridaceae plant and include three new -kaurane diterpenoids, along with nine other known compounds. The new compounds were shown to reduce levels of pro-inflammatory mediators, such as PGE₂, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. These findings highlight the potential of -kaurane diterpenes from Pteridaceae as new agents in the fight against neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease.

ImmunologyNeuroscience Pteris multifida
Kim JW et al (2016).
Molecules.
DOI:
10.3390/molecules22010027
PubMed:
28035965

In vitro digestion, antioxidant and antiacetylcholinesterase activities of two species of Ruta: Ruta chalepensis and Ruta montana.

A recent study investigated the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of these two Ruta species. The study used various in vitro (test tube) assays to evaluate the effects of different extracts from both species. Results showed that the extracts had significant anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. The researchers concluded that these findings support the traditional uses of these plants in Tunisian folk medicine. Further clinical studies are needed to validate their effectiveness in treating inflammatory diseases.

Neuroscience Ruta chalepensis
Khadhri A et al (2017).
Pharm Biol.
PubMed:
27925496

Effects of passiflora incarnata and midazolam for control of anxiety in patients undergoing dental extraction.

This study compared the effects of Passiflora incarnata and midazolam for controlling anxiety in patients undergoing surgery to remove their mandibular third molar. Anxiety is a common issue for dental patients during both minor and major procedures. Passiflora incarnata and midazolam were compared for their ability to reduce anxiety. The results demonstrated that Passiflora incarnata was equally effective at reducing anxiety as midazolam, but with fewer negative side effects. This suggests that natural remedies like Passiflora incarnata may be a feasible alternative to synthetic drugs for dental patients experiencing anxiety.

Neuroscience Passiflora incarnata
Dantas LP et al (2017).
Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal.
PubMed:
27918731

Medicinal Value and Taxonomy of the Tinder Polypore, Fomes fomentarius (Agaricomycetes): A Review.

Fomes fomentarius is a wood-decaying macrofungus with potential for biotech applications. Researchers identified three distinct lineages/sublineages, with North American strains in sublineage A1 and European strains in A2. Lineage B includes strains from Europe and Asia. Studying these lineages/sublineages could lead to improved characterization for better biotech applications. The medicinal value of F. fomentarius is also discussed.

Neuroscience Fomes fomentarius
Gáper J et al (2016).
Int J Med Mushrooms.
PubMed:
27910753

Salvia (Sage): A Review of its Potential Cognitive-Enhancing and Protective Effects.

Salvia, or sage, is a genus comprising many species traditionally used as brain-enhancing tonics. Studies have confirmed that several Salvia species contain active compounds that may improve cognitive activity and prevent neurodegenerative disease. This review summarizes the active constituents in Salvia plants and their influence on cognitive skills such as memory, attention, and learning. Completed human trials are also discussed, as well as factors influencing the potency of Salvia plants. The review proposes future research to improve our understanding of the potential health benefits of Salvia plants.

Neuroscience Salvia
Lopresti AL et al (2017).
Drugs R D.
DOI:
10.1007/s40268-016-0157-5
PubMed:
27888449

Apigetrin from Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi Inhibits Neuroinflammation in BV-2 Microglia and Exerts Neuroprotective Effect in HT22 Hippocampal Cells.

In this study, researchers investigated the effects of apigetrin, a flavonoid found in several herbal medicines, on neuroinflammation. They found that apigetrin reduced the secretion of inflammatory cytokines and decreased the production of prostaglandin E and nitric oxide in mouse microglia cells stimulated with lipopolysaccharide. It also suppressed nuclear expression of nuclear factor kappa B and enhanced expression of antioxidant enzymes in BV-2 cells and had antioxidative activity. Finally, apigetrin inhibited H2O2-induced cell death in hippocampal cells. These findings suggest potential prophylactic activity for neurodegenerative diseases by regulating neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal injury.

ImmunologyNeuroscience Stachys tibetica
Lim HS et al (2016).
J Med Food.
PubMed:
27845861

Chemical Analysis of Extracts from Newfoundland Berries and Potential Neuroprotective Effects.

This study analyzed the polyphenolic compounds found in Newfoundland berries, including blueberries, lingonberries, and black currants. Using HPLC and MS detection, the researchers identified 21 phenolic compounds in the three species. They also tested the lingonberry extract and found it provided complete protection from cell death in an in vitro model of cell injury. These findings suggest that these berries could be used as dietary supplements and have potential for protecting the nervous system from traumatic injuries.

Neuroscience Ribes lacustre
Hossain MZ et al (2016).
Antioxidants (Basel).
PubMed:
27775557

Gastrodia elata and epilepsy: Rationale and therapeutic potential.

The traditional Chinese herb Gastrodia elata Blume has been used for centuries in folk medicine and is being researched for its anticonvulsant properties and safety. Its biological activity is being studied to deepen our understanding of its effects.

Neuroscience Gastrodia elata
Matias M et al (2016).
Phytomedicine.
DOI:
10.1016/j.phymed.2016.09.001
PubMed:
27765372
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