Understanding the concept of Nattokinase use: a few years after beginning

Abstract

A number of scientific papers consider the specific and multifunctional pharmacological characteristics of Nattokinase, including those in the context of neuroprotection, neuroregeneration and neuroplasticity. We present the results from a 12-month observational study of 129 ischemic stroke and transient ischemic attack (TIA) patients treated with Nattokinase and unchanged antihypertensive, antilipidemic and neuroprotective therapy. The main objectives were: (1) to determine the presence or absence of a positive effect of Nattokinase administration on the mean values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure, on the mean values of total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, as well as the positive impact on cognitive function through improving cerebral blood flow; and (2) to analyze vascular complications and adverse drug reactions and interactions. After 12 months, lower mean values of systolic and diastolic blood pressure were recorded. No statistically significant lipid profile changes were found except for those in men with stroke. At month 12, the cognitive assessment showed no significant difference compared to initial levels in women, while in men, the improvement was significant. The complication rates were similar between the treatment and control groups. Our findings suggest that Nattokinase is actively involved in the complex mechanisms of vascular prevention. It has a beneficial effect on the aforementioned risk factors with possible time- and gender-related differences. We also hypothesize that both intake of Nattokinase and neuroprotective agents is associated with improvement in vascular cognitive impairment, increased function in daily activities and better outcomes.