Neuroscience Studies

Exogenous γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) alleviates nitrogen deficiency by mediating nitrate uptake and assimilation in Andrographis paniculata seedlings.

A study on Andrographis paniculata showed that exogenous GABA improved plant growth under low nitrogen conditions. GABA increased N assimilation and protein synthesis in plants, and up-regulated the activities and expression of N metabolic enzymes. GABA also increased the accumulation of α-ketoglutarate and malate for NO assimilation. N isotopic tracing and NRTs transcription showed that GABA up-regulated NRT2.4 and NRT3.2 to increase NO uptake. Primidone, an inhibitor of GABA receptor, impeded the effects of GABA on plant growth and N accumulation. The results suggest that GABA acts as a signal to up-regulate NRTs via its receptor and promote NO assimilation to alleviate N deficiency in A. paniculata.

Huang XJ et al (2023).
Plant Physiol Biochem.
PubMed:
37086691

l-theanine adjunct to sertraline for major depressive disorder: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

This study looked at whether adding l-theanine, a substance found in green tea that affects the brain, can help in the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). Researchers wanted to see if it worked and was tolerable for patients. The study's results could indicate a new approach to treating MDD.

Shamabadi A et al (2023).
J Affect Disord.
PubMed:
37084960

Exploring the molecular mechanism of Nux Vomica in treating ischemic stroke using network pharmacology and molecular docking methods.

Scientific study investigates Nux Vomica's pharmacological mechanism for treating ischemic stroke, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic option for brain damage by regulating inflammatory responses.

Zhang C et al (2023).
Medicine (Baltimore).
PubMed:
37083769

UHPLC-Orbitrap-Fusion-TMS-Based Metabolomics Study of Phenylpropionamides in the Seed of Cannabis sativa L. against Alzheimer's Disease.

Researchers used a metabolomics approach to identify potential biomarkers in Alzheimer's disease (AD) rats treated with Streptozotocin. They found that primary bile acid biosynthesis and taurine and hypotaurine metabolism were significantly correlated with AD rats, and key enzymes affecting these pathways were verified at the protein level. In rats treated with a high dose of PHS (from Cannabis sativa), the levels of certain key enzymes were restored. This study shows that PHS has a protective effect on AD by regulating bile acid biosynthesis and taurine/hypotaurine metabolism.

Wu D et al (2023).
Chem Biodivers.
PubMed:
37072341

Regulation of microglia related neuroinflammation contributes to the protective effect of Gelsevirine on ischemic stroke.

Gelsevirine reduces stroke damage by decreasing inflammation and apoptotic cells, improving neurobiological function, and downregulating microglia activity and JAK-STAT signal pathway.

Xing C et al (2023).
Front Immunol.
PubMed:
37063929

Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Potential of Methanolic Extract of Neurada procumbens Linn. in Mice.

This study evaluated the anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of the methanolic crude extract of Linn. using several animal tests. They found that treatment groups with varying doses of the extract had a dose-dependent increase in time spent in light compartments and open arms, as well as increased number of head poking, suggesting anxiolytic effects. Additionally, the extract showed significant antidepressant potential. These findings highlight the potential of Linn. as a natural treatment for anxiety and depression and warrant further investigation into the active compounds responsible for these effects.

Khalid AA, Jabeen Q and Javaid F (2023).
Dose Response.
PubMed:
37063345

Adaptogens on Depression-Related Outcomes: A Systematic Integrative Review and Rationale of Synergism with Physical Activity.

A review of 41 studies found that adaptogens, particularly St. John's Wort and saffron, may be effective non-pharmacological strategies for depression. The studies suggest that adaptogens reduce allostatic load via the regulation of BDNF. However, there is limited research on combining adaptogens with physical exercise. The review provides support for the use of St. John's Wort and saffron in depression treatment and highlights the need for more research on the efficacy of other adaptogens and the combination of herbal extracts and resistance training.

Sánchez IA et al (2023).
Int J Environ Res Public Health.
PubMed:
37047914