Neuroprotective effects of Maca extract and macamides against amyloid β peptide induced neurotoxicity in B‐35 neuroblastoma cells

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether Lepidium meyenii (Maca) extract or its active principles the macamides could ameliorate the neuronal damage produced by the amyloid‐beta (Aβ) peptide in Alzheimer's Disease (AD). We hypothesized that Aβ is toxic to B‐35 rat neuroblastoma cells and that Maca extract or macamides could counteract the induced cell damage. Maca extract and one isolated macamide were tested in cell cultures to determine their protective activity against Aβ induced neurotoxicity using B‐35 cells. The results suggest that there is a concentration dependent toxicity of Aβ in B‐35 neuroblastoma cells. They also suggest that both Maca extract and the macamide 3‐methoxybenzylhexadecanamide are neuroprotective against Aβ induced damage in the mentioned cells. The Maca extract exhibited a concentration dependent neuroprotective effect at all tested concentrations. However, the macamide showed a concentration dependent neuroprotective effect until certain concentration from which higher concentrations were less effective. These results suggest a potential application of macamides from Maca as potential agents for the treatment of AD and other neurodegenerative diseases. Further experiments are necessary to demonstrate the mechanisms of protection against Aβ peptide.