Cathine and cathinone disposition kinetics and neurotransmitter profile in several organs of rats exposed to a single dose of Catha edulis (Vahl) Forssk. ex Endl. extract.

Researchers studied the effects of a stimulant plant called khat on rats. They gave the rats a single dose of the plant and then looked at how the two active ingredients, cathine and cathinone, were processed in the body. They also measured the levels of different neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that help transmit signals in the brain. The results will help us understand how khat affects the body and brain, which could be important for understanding its possible risks and benefits.

Alamir AM et al (2023).

Drug Metab Pers Ther.

DOI:

10.1515/dmpt-2022-0154

PubMed:

36883753

A new gentiopicroside derivative improves cognitive deficits of AD mice via activation of Wnt signaling pathway and regulation of gut microbiota homeostasis.

Wang J et al (2023).

Phytomedicine.

DOI:

10.1016/j.phymed.2023.154730

PubMed:

36878094

Effect of Mucuna pruriens on brain NMDA receptor and tau protein gene expression in cerebral ischemic rats.

Researchers investigated the effects of pre-treatment with a seed extract and its bioactive molecule on gene expression in a rat model of cerebral ischemia (reduced blood flow to the brain). Rats were divided into four groups, with those treated with the extract or molecule showing lower neurological deficits and reduced brain damage compared to those in the control group. The study suggests that pre-treatment with the molecule and extract may reduce the negative effects of cerebral ischemia.

Parvatikar PP et al (2023).

Front Physiol.

DOI:

10.3389/fphys.2023.1092032

PubMed:

36875022

Protective effect of compatible herbs in Jin-Gu-Lian formula against Alangium chinense-induced neurotoxicity via oxidative stress, neurotransmitter metabolisms, and pharmacokinetics.

The herb Aconitum carmichaelii is used in Miao medicine to treat rheumatic diseases, but its neurotoxicity poses clinical challenges. This study investigates the use of compatible herbs in Jin-Gu-Lian formula to detoxify Aconitum carmichaelii and the mechanism behind it. Rats were administered Aconitum carmichaelii extract alone or with compatible herbs, showing that the combination ameliorated oxidative damage, prevented abnormality of neurotransmitters and modulated pharmacokinetics. The study suggests that the use of compatible herbs can alleviate the neurotoxicity of Aconitum carmichaelii in traditional medicine.

Lian D et al (2023).

Front Pharmacol.

DOI:

10.3389/fphar.2023.1133982

PubMed:

36874008

Curcumin Alleviates Oxidative stress, Neuroinflammation, and Promotes Behavioral Recovery after Traumatic Brain Injury.

In a study on TBI, researchers found that curcumin reduced neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and neuronal apoptosis in rats. The study demonstrated the effectiveness of curcumin in treating brain injury and suggests it may have therapeutic potential for other neurodegenerative diseases.

Bing C et al (2023).

Curr Neurovasc Res.

DOI:

10.2174/1567202620666230303144323

PubMed:

36872351

Attenuation of Seizures, Cognitive Deficits, and Brain Histopathology by Phytochemicals of Imperata cylindrica (L.) P. Beauv (Poaceae) in Acute and Chronic Mutant Drosophila melanogaster Epilepsy Models.

Researchers studied the neuroprotective effects of on a mutant model of epilepsy in flies. The study showed that the extract reduced neurodegeneration, convulsions, and cognitive deficits in the flies. This was likely due to the extract's antioxidative and inhibitory properties. The findings suggest that has potential as an anticonvulsant and antiepileptogenic treatment, but more research is needed to confirm its efficacy.

Ssempijja F et al (2023).

J Evid Based Integr Med.

DOI:

10.1177/2515690X231160191

PubMed:

36866635

Protective effect of hot peppers against amyloid β peptide and brain injury in AlCl(3)-induced Alzheimer's disease in rats.

Researchers tested the effects of red pepper extract on male rats with induced Alzheimer's disease. The study examined the methods, results, and potential impact of the extract on treating the disease.

Abdel-Salam OME et al (2023).

Iran J Basic Med Sci.

DOI:

10.22038/IJBMS.2022.67871.14845

PubMed:

36865040

The Pharmacological Activity of Garlic (Allium sativum) in Parkinson's Disease: From Molecular Mechanisms to the Therapeutic Potential.

Garlic has shown protective effects in models of Parkinson's Disease (PD) due to its anti-Parkinsonian activity through targeting oxidative stress, mitochondrial damage, and neuroinflammation-related signaling. However, the major bioactive components of garlic present stability issues and some adverse effects. This review explores the therapeutic potential of garlic and its constituents in PD, the molecular mechanisms responsible for its benefits, and the associated limitations that need to be overcome for clinical use. Garlic has potential as a treatment for PD, but more research is needed to develop safer and more effective methods of delivery.

Rakshit D et al (2023).

ACS Chem Neurosci.

DOI:

10.1021/acschemneuro.2c00789

PubMed:

36861262