Neuroscience Studies

Amelioration of cyclophosphamide-induced DNA damage, oxidative stress, and hepato- and neurotoxicity by Piper longum extract in rats: The role of γH2AX and 8-OHdG.

A study evaluated a plant, Piper longum, for its ability to protect DNA from the harmful effects of the chemotherapy drug cyclophosphamide. The plant was tested in laboratory experiments using plasmid DNA and human blood cells. It was also tested in rats to confirm its effectiveness in preventing genomic instability, oxidative stress, and organ damage. The plant was found to protect DNA, reduce chromosome damage, prevent DNA damage, and reduce organ damage without causing toxicity. This promising finding could lead to future therapies to reduce side effects of chemotherapy.

Yadav V et al (2023).
Front Pharmacol.
PubMed:
36969834

A review on Plant based remedies for the treatment of Multiple Sclerosis.

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a degenerative autoimmune disease with an unknown cause that affects the central nervous system. Currently, there are 18 FDA-approved drugs that modify MS symptoms, but the prolonged use of synthetic drugs has negative effects. Medicinal plants such as Nigella sativa, ginger, saffron, pomegranate, curcumin, resveratrol, and ginsenoside have the potential to improve symptoms and possibly prevent progression of MS. This article aims to inform chronically ill patients about the complementary and alternative medicinal options available to them.

Alam MZ et al (2023).
Ann Pharm Fr.
PubMed:
36963654

Attenuation of Strychnine-Induced Epilepsy Employing Amaranthus viridis L. Leaves Extract in Experimental Rats.

The study tested the effectiveness of L. extract (EAV) in treating epilepsy caused by strychnine, compared to the commonly used medication phenytoin (PHY). Results showed that EAV had a significantly higher success rate in reducing seizures and improving motor coordination, with fewer side effects. These findings suggest the potential for using EAV as a safer and more effective alternative treatment for epilepsy.

Bharadwaj A et al (2023).
Behav Neurol.
PubMed:
36959866

Synaptoporin and parathyroid hormone 2 as markers of multimodal inputs to the auditory brainstem.

Researchers investigated the distribution of the synaptic vesicle protein synaptoporin in the mouse brainstem. They found region-specific differences in its accumulation, with higher levels in areas known to receive extra-auditory inputs. They also identified synaptoporin-positive synapses in the auditory system and traced their origin to the medial paralemniscal nucleus, which uses parathyroid hormone 2 as a transmitter. The study suggests that different inputs work together in the superior olivary complex.

Reuss S et al (2023).
J Chem Neuroanat.
PubMed:
36958466

Morus alba fruit diet ameliorates cognitive deficit in mouse model of streptozotocin-induced memory impairment.

This study found that including Morus alba fruit extract in the diets of mice improved memory function. The experiment had two phases: one where the mice were given the fruit extract before memory impairment was induced and another where the extract was given after memory impairment had occurred. Cognitive function was measured using the Morris Water Maze test and brain biochemistry and histopathology were also studied. The results showed that including the fruit extract in the diet prevented and attenuated memory impairment in mice by reducing central cholinergic activity, decreasing oxidative stress, and preventing neurodegeneration.

Sood P, Singh V and Shri R (2023).
Metab Brain Dis.
PubMed:
36947332

An update on potential pharmacotherapies for cognitive impairment in bipolar disorder.

Bipolar disorder is hindered by cognitive impairment, which can reduce quality of life and socioeconomic functioning. Current treatments for cognitive impairment in bipolar disorder are not effective. However, potential pharmaceutical interventions are being studied to target the underlying biology of the disorder.

Johnson DE et al (2023).
Expert Opin Pharmacother.
PubMed:
36946229

Stachydrine, a potential drug for the treatment of cardiovascular system and central nervous system diseases.

Researchers have conducted a review on the traditional Chinese herb, Leonurus japonicus Houtt, and its primary component, stachydrine, which has been shown to have biological activities such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-coagulant, anti-apoptotic, vasodilator, and angiogenic promoter. The herb is commonly used in China for gynecological and blood-related disorders, and has unique advantages in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The study aims to provide a scientific basis for the development of new CVD drug formulations.

Liao L et al (2023).
Biomed Pharmacother.
PubMed:
36940619

Cannabinoids in traumatic brain injury and related neuropathologies: preclinical and clinical research on endogenous, plant-derived, and synthetic compounds.

Traumatic brain injury can have debilitating consequences, with even mild injuries leaving approximately 20% of patients with persistent symptoms. Current pharmaceutical interventions have not improved outcomes after TBI. Research has focused on the endocannabinoid system and the therapeutic benefits of cannabis, including cannabinoids and terpenes. Cannabinoids interact with neurons, microglia, and astrocytes, exerting anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects that are desirable for TBI management. This review comprehensively appraises the scientific literature on phytocannabinoids, synthetic and endogenous cannabinoids, and terpenes in TBI and other neurological conditions.

Lins BR et al (2023).
J Neuroinflammation.
PubMed:
36935484