A recent study published in eLife has shed light on the potential of Zizyphi spinosi semen (ZSS), a traditional Chinese herb, in mitigating neurodegenerative diseases and enhancing cognitive function. The research team evaluated the effects of non-extracted simple crush powder of ZSS in preventing Alzheimer’s, frontotemporal dementia, and Parkinson’s in mouse models, demonstrating promising results.
Neurodegenerative diseases are characterized by the accumulation of amyloidogenic proteins such as amyloid beta (Aβ), tau, and α-synuclein, leading to cognitive decline and motor impairment. Current drug developments, focusing on immunotherapy, can be costly and invasive, highlighting the need for safe, affordable, and non-invasive preventive options.
The study utilized non-extracted simple crush powder of ZSS, sourced from Auropure LifeScience Co., Ltd. in China, and assessed its neuroprotective effects in mouse models of neurodegenerative diseases. The ZSS preparations were analyzed for key components such as jujuboside A, jujuboside B, and spinosin, using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) coupled with mass spectrometry.
Behavioral assessments using the Morris water maze and rotarod tests, histological analyses, and oxidative stress measurements were conducted. The study found that ZSS improved memory in APP23 mice, modeling Alzheimer’s disease, and reduced Aβ oligomer levels and amyloid deposits in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. In Tau784 mice, exhibiting tau pathology, ZSS treatment led to a complete recovery of cognitive function at higher doses.
The simple crush powder of ZSS demonstrated superior cognitive enhancement compared to the hot water extract and extraction residue, significantly increasing brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, crucial for neuron health. In Huα-Syn(A53T) mice, modeling Parkinson’s disease, ZSS improved motor function and reduced α-synuclein pathology, enhancing BDNF expression and neurogenesis.
ZSS treatment significantly reduced cellular senescence markers and DNA oxidation in aged mice, aligning cognitive performance with that of younger mice. Although the radical-scavenging ability of ZSS was relatively weak, its antioxidant activity was notable.
Conclusion
The study concludes that ZSS, particularly in its non-extracted simple crush powder form, shows potential in mitigating neurodegenerative diseases by reducing Aβ, tau, and α-synuclein oligomers, restoring synaptophysin levels, increasing BDNF expression, promoting neurogenesis, and improving cognitive and motor functions. The findings suggest that ZSS may contain other active substances that contribute to its neuroprotective effects, which could be diminished during the extraction process.
Related Topics:
-
Researchers Receive 45 Million Canadian Dollars To Research New Psychiatric Treatment Methods
-
The Study Emphasizes The Gap In Measuring Sexual Orientation And Mental Health Risks
-
Work Pressure Increases The Risk Of Adverse Cardiovascular Health Measures
