Improve Brain Function Research Articles

Policy Actions Required to Improve Nutrition for Brain Health.

Brain health is a pressing global concern. Poor diet quality is a recognized major environmental risk factor for brain disorders and one of the few that is modifiable. There is substantial evidence that nutrition impacts brain development and brain health across the life course. So why then is the full potential of nutrition not utilized to improve brain function? This commentary, which is based on discussions of the European Brain Research Area BRAINFOOD cluster, aims to highlight the most urgent research priorities concerning the evidence base in the area of nutrition and brain health and identifies 3 major issues that need to be addressed: (1) increase causal and mechanistic evidence on the link between nutrition and brain health, (2) produce effective messages/education concerning the role of food for brain health, and (3) provide funding to support collaborative working across diverse stakeholders.

Astrocytic GLUT1 reduction paradoxically improves central and peripheral glucose homeostasis.

Astrocytes are considered an essential source of blood-borne glucose or its metabolites to neurons. Nonetheless, the necessity of the main astrocyte glucose transporter, i.e., GLUT1, for brain glucose metabolism has not been defined. Unexpectedly, we found that brain glucose metabolism was paradoxically augmented in mice with astrocytic GLUT1 reduction (GLUT1ΔGFAP mice). These mice also exhibited improved peripheral glucose metabolism especially in obesity, rendering them metabolically healthier. Mechanistically, we observed that GLUT1-deficient astrocytes exhibited increased insulin receptor-dependent ATP release, and that both astrocyte insulin signaling and brain purinergic signaling are essential for improved brain function and systemic glucose metabolism. Collectively, we demonstrate that astrocytic GLUT1 is central to the regulation of brain energetics, yet its depletion triggers a reprogramming of brain metabolism sufficient to sustain energy requirements, peripheral glucose homeostasis, and cognitive function.

Plants’ Impact on the Human Brain—Exploring the Neuroprotective and Neurotoxic Potential of Plants

Background: Plants have long been recognized for their potential to influence neurological health, with both neuroprotective and neurotoxic properties. This review explores the dual nature of plant-derived compounds and their impact on the human brain. Discussion: Numerous studies have highlighted the neuroprotective effects of various phytoconstituents, such as those found in Ginkgo biloba, Centella asiatica, Panax ginseng, Withania somnifera, and Curcuma longa. The neuroprotective compounds have demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cognitive-enhancing properties, making them promising candidates for combating neurodegenerative diseases and improving brain function. Polyphenolic compounds, triterpenic acids, and specific phytocompounds like the ones from EGb 761 extract have shown interactions with key enzymes and receptors in the brain, leading to neuroprotective outcomes. However, this review also acknowledges the neurotoxic potential of certain plants, such as the Veratrum species, which contains steroidal alkaloids that can cause DNA damage and disrupt neurological function, or Atropa belladonna, which interfere with the normal functioning of the cholinergic system in the body, leading to a range of symptoms associated with anticholinergic toxicity. Conslusions: This review also emphasizes the need for further research to elucidate the complex mechanisms underlying the neuroprotective and neurotoxic effects of plant-derived compounds, as well as to identify novel phytoconstituents with therapeutic potential. Understanding the complex relationship between plants and the human brain is crucial for harnessing the benefits of neuroprotective compounds while mitigating the risks associated with neurotoxic substances. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the knowledge on the neurological properties of plants and highlights the importance of continued research in this field for the development of novel therapeutic strategies targeting brain health and neurological disorders.

Effects of physical activity on cognitive function according to the latest selected scientific studies

Background: With the development of medicine, people's life expectancy is increasing, and consequently, there is interest in improving the quality of life, which is affected by, among other things, cognitive functions. Cognitive functions are represented by memory, the ability to absorb new information, speech, attention, reading comprehension, and communication. Many researchers have shown that physical activity (PA) can affect these processes. Aim of the study:The study aims to review the latest scientific studies on the effects of PA on cognitive functions in the broadest sense, specifically on the memory and attention of people of different ages. The paper also explains some of the processes that occur during PA and their impact on cognitive function.Material and methods:A literature review of recent scientific studies in Google Scholar, PubMed, and National Library of Medicine databases published from 2016 to 2024. The inclusion criteria were that the article had a thorough research methodology, publication language English or Polish, and open access.State of knowledge: PA, thanks in part to its effect on the release of beta-endorphins during exercise, promotes neurogenesis in adults and improves broader brain health. PA also improves brain function by affecting astrocytes - the star cells that maintain brain homeostasis. Researchers have shown that acute PA improves attention, while regular PA, lasting at least several weeks, improves academic performance. Studying adults, it has been observed that regular PA can slow progressive cognitive impairment during aging. In studies involving children, PA has been shown to have a positive effect on attention and learning.Conclusions: PA has a positive effect on improving cognitive function in people of all ages, both healthy and those with already established cognitive impairment. More research is needed.

Neuroimaging Insights into Autism Spectrum Disorder: Structural and Functional Brain

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition that affects social communication, behavior, and interests. This review analyzes recent brain imaging studies to understand the biological basis of ASD. Studies using structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) show that people with ASD often have less gray matter in key brain areas like the amygdala and superior temporal sulcus. There are also concerns with white matter connections in the brain. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)studies show reduced connectivity within critical brain networks and irregular activation patterns when processing social information. Intervention studies suggest that targeted training can improve brain function related to social skills. Postmortem research reveals cellular and synaptic changes, such as fewer Purkinje cells and altered neuron organization. These findings highlight the importance of studying the social brain network in ASD and suggest the need for more long-term, comprehensive studies. This review is intended to contribute to the development of advanced diagnostic tools and therapies that will ultimately enhance the quality of life for individuals with ASD.

Evaluation of the clinical efficacy of Pediococcus acidilactici CCFM6432 in alleviating depression

Aim: Accumulating evidence highlights the crucial role of the “gut-brain axis” and emphasizes the potential of dietary interventions to improve brain health through this pathway. This study assesses the effects of the probiotic Pediococcus acidilactici CCFM6432 on mood, sleep, and gastrointestinal function in patients with depressive disorder. Methods: This clinical trial is a randomized, placebo-controlled study (Registration: ChiCTR2300071025). It enrolled 39 adult patients diagnosed with depressive disorder, who were randomly assigned to either the placebo control group (n = 19) or the CCFM6432 intervention group (n = 20). The intervention period spanned four weeks. Assessments were conducted at both the beginning and end of the trial, including comprehensive questionnaire evaluations and the collection of serum and fecal samples. Results: In comparison to the placebo, treatment with CCFM6432 significantly decreased depression and anxiety scores, as well as ameliorated gastrointestinal dysfunction and poor sleep quality commonly associated with mood disorders. Microbiota analysis revealed an increase in species richness without notable changes in overall diversity, yet Pediococcus species was found to be more abundant post-treatment. Functional analysis indicated reduced activity in the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway, suggesting anti-inflammatory effects induced by the probiotic. Metabolomic profiling identified elevated levels of fecal lactic acid, which correlated with lower Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores, thereby linking probiotic metabolism to mood enhancement. Conclusion: These findings imply that CCFM6432 may improve brain function by modulating gut microbiota and their mediated immune homeostasis, underscoring its potential as an adjunctive treatment for mental disorders.

Efficacy of DHA-enriched phosphatidylserine and its underlying mechanism in alleviating polystyrene nanoplastics-induced hepatotoxicity in mice

ObjectivePlastic pollution has become a global pollution problem that cannot be ignored. As the main destination of human oral intake, the toxic effects of plastic on the digestive system represented by the intestine and liver are the focus of current research. Marine-derived DHA-PS has a variety of biological activities, mainly focusing on improving brain function and regulating lipid metabolism. However, whether it has an improvement effect on PS-NPs-induced hepato-intestinal injury and the underlying mechanism remain unclear. MethodsA murine liver injury model was established by gavage of PS-NPs for six weeks. By integrating approaches from lipidomics, transcriptomics, and gut microbiota analysis, the molecular mechanism by which DHA-PS alleviates PS-NPs-induced murine hepatotoxicity was explored through the “gut-liver axis”. ResultsOur findings reveal that prolonged exposure to PS-NPs results in significant murine liver damage and dysfunction, characterized by increased oxidative stress and inflammation, along with exacerbated hepatic lipid accumulation. Mechanistically, PS-NPs disrupt the hepatic SIRT1-AMPK pathway by suppressing the expression of SIRT1, AMPKα, and PPARα, while enhancing the expression of SREBP-1c, ultimately leading to disordered hepatic lipid metabolism. The sphingolipid and glycerophospholipid metabolic pathways were particularly affected. Additionally, in agreement with transcriptomic analyses, PS-NPs activate the hepatic TLR4/NF-κB pathway. At the same time, exposure to PS-NPs decreases the expression of ZO-1, occludin, and claudin-1, diminishes the relative abundance of beneficial gut bacteria (norank_f_Muribaculaceae, Akkermansia, and norank_f_norank_o_Clostridia_UCG-014), and increases the prevalence of pathogenic gut bacteria (Coriobacteriaceae_UCG-002 and Desulfovibrio), exacerbating liver injury through the gut-liver axis. However, administering DHA-PS (50 mg/kg) effectively alleviated these injuries. ConclusionThis study was the first to employ multi-omics techniques to elucidate the potential mechanisms underlying hepatotoxicity induced by PS-NPs, thereby supporting the use of DHA-PS as a dietary supplement to mitigate the effects of nanoplastic pollutants.

The influence of selected plant stimulants and mushrooms on the human body

INTRODUCTION In recent years, there has been an increase in the use of herbal stimulants around the world. Many people cannot imagine life without coffee, a cup of this drink is often a mandatory part of the day. As the world moves faster and faster, people are looking for a way to keep up with it. Therefore, more and more plant and mushroom stimulants appear on the market, which help people replenish energy deficiencies and meet the challenge of constantly living on the run. Selected stimulants, the benefits associated with their use, and side effects are described in the work below. THE AIM The aim of this work is to discuss the properties that stimulate the human body. We have selected less and more known plants and mushrooms, describing their properties, benefits of their use, side effects, and contraindications to their use. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this work, we describe the impact of substances that stimulate the human body contained in selected plants and mushrooms. A review of the literature available in the National Library of Medicine database at https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov and Google Scholar was conducted. The articles were searched using keywords such as herbs stimulants, fungi, side effects, adaptogens, and advantages. SUMMARY There are many plants and fungi in nature containing substances that have a beneficial effect on the human body. They improve brain function, reduce stress, and increase concentration. We often reach for them because we really need an additional energy booster in today's world. However, it should be remembered that these agents in too high doses may also cause side effects. Therefore, these preparations should be selected individually, taking into account chronic diseases, conditions such as pregnancy and lactation, and medications taken.

FDA-approved cannabidiol [Epidiolex®] alleviates Gulf War Illness-linked cognitive and mood dysfunction, hyperalgesia, neuroinflammatory signaling, and declined neurogenesis

BackgroundChronic Gulf War Illness (GWI) is characterized by cognitive and mood impairments, as well as persistent neuroinflammation and oxidative stress. This study aimed to investigate the efficacy of Epidiolex®, a Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved cannabidiol (CBD), in improving brain function in a rat model of chronic GWI.MethodsSix months after exposure to low doses of GWI-related chemicals [pyridostigmine bromide, N,N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET), and permethrin (PER)] along with moderate stress, rats with chronic GWI were administered either vehicle (VEH) or CBD (20 mg/kg, oral) for 16 weeks. Neurobehavioral tests were conducted on 11 weeks after treatment initiation to evaluate the performance of rats in tasks related to associative recognition memory, object location memory, pattern separation, and sucrose preference. The effect of CBD on hyperalgesia was also examined. The brain tissues were processed for immunohistochemical and molecular studies following behavioral tests.ResultsGWI rats treated with VEH exhibited impairments in all cognitive tasks and anhedonia, whereas CBD-treated GWI rats showed improvements in all cognitive tasks and no anhedonia. Additionally, CBD treatment alleviated hyperalgesia in GWI rats. Analysis of hippocampal tissues from VEH-treated rats revealed astrocyte hypertrophy and increased percentages of activated microglia presenting NOD-, LRR- and pyrin domain-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) complexes as well as elevated levels of proteins involved in NLRP3 inflammasome activation and Janus kinase/signal transducers and activators of the transcription (JAK/STAT) signaling. Furthermore, there were increased concentrations of proinflammatory and oxidative stress markers along with decreased neurogenesis. In contrast, the hippocampus from CBD-treated GWI rats displayed reduced levels of proteins mediating the activation of NLRP3 inflammasomes and JAK/STAT signaling, normalized concentrations of proinflammatory cytokines and oxidative stress markers, and improved neurogenesis. Notably, CBD treatment did not alter the concentration of endogenous cannabinoid anandamide in the hippocampus.ConclusionsThe use of an FDA-approved CBD (Epidiolex®) has been shown to effectively alleviate cognitive and mood impairments as well as hyperalgesia associated with chronic GWI. Importantly, the improvements observed in rats with chronic GWI in this study were attributed to the ability of CBD to significantly suppress signaling pathways that perpetuate chronic neuroinflammation.

Nanoemulsion of Ethanolic Extract of Centella asiatica (NanoSECA)Ameliorates Learning and Memory Performance by EnhancingCholinergic Activities, Increasing Antioxidative Levels, and AttenuatingOxidative Stress Markers in Adult Rats.

Centella asiatica (C. asiatica) has long been traditionally used as a memory enhancer. Nanoemulsion of ethanolic extract C. asiatica (NanoSECA) has been developed to improve brain functions. However, the effect of NanoSECA on enhancing memory and cognitive functions remains unexplored. This research aimed to investigate the potential of NanoSECA on cognitive tasks and memory enhancement pathways in a normal adult rat model. Thirty male Sprague Dawley rats (7-8 weeks old) were randomly subjected to five groups (n=six per group). Treatment groups were supplemented with NanoSECA and ethanolic extract of C. asiatica (SECA) for 28 days by oral gavages. Different brain sections were isolated, homogenized, and tested for acetylcholinesterase, antioxidants (glutathione and malondialdehyde), and anti-inflammatory agents (nitric oxide, tumour necrosis factor-α, and prostaglandin E2). NanoSECA supplementation markedly enhanced the acetylcholine, glutathione levels and reduced a distinct diminution in plasma activities of acetylcholinesterase, malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, prostaglandin E, and tumor necrosis factor-α levels. NanoSECA can be used as a memory enhancer through enhanced cholinergic activity, increased antioxidant level, and reduced oxidative stress.

Genistein-3′-sodium sulfonate promotes brain functional rehabilitation in ischemic stroke rats by regulating astrocytes polarization through NF-κB signaling pathway

The activation and polarization of astrocytes are involved in neuroinflammation and brain functional rehabilitation after ischemic stroke. Our previous studies display the neuroprotective effect of genistein-3′-sodium sulfonate (GSS) in the acute phase of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury (CI/RI). This study aimed to investigate the brain function improvement of GSS during the recovery period after CI/RI in rats and to explore the potential mechanism from the perspective of astrocyte activation and polarization. The transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO) rats were treated with GSS (1 mg/kg) continuously for 28 days. The behavior tests were measured to assess neurological function. The mRNA and protein expression in affected cerebral cortex were detected on day 29 after tMCAO. Our results demonstrated that GSS treatment significantly improved the spatial and temporal gait parameters in the Catwalk gait test, prolonged the time on the stick and increased the rotation speed in the rotarod test, and decreased the time to find the hidden platform and increased the time in the target quadrant in the Morris water maze test. In addition, GFAP, GBP2, C3, IL-1β protein expressions and Nos2A mRNA level were decreased, while Nrf2, BDNF, IL-10 protein expressions and Sphk1 and Nef2l2 mRNA levels increased after GSS treatment. Interestingly, GSS presented a strong binding affinity to TLR4 and suppressed the activation of NF-κB signaling. In conclusion, GSS can promote brain function recovery by inhibiting astrocyte activation and polarization to A1 phenotype, and enhancing astrocyte polarization to A2 phenotype via inactivating TLR4/NF-κB signaling, which provide a candidate compound for clinical rehabilitation therapy in the recovery period after ischemic stroke.

Unraveling Grewia bilamellata Gagnep. Role in cerebral ischemia: Comprehensive in vivo and in silico studies.

The present study investigated the neuroprotective properties of whole plants of Grewia bilamellata Gagnep. extract (GBEE) against cerebral ischemia by harnessing both In vivo studies in a rat model and In silico studies focusing on nitric oxide synthase (NOS) inhibition. High-resolution liquid chromatography‒mass spectrometry (HR LC‒MS) analysis identified 32 phytochemicals in the GBEE, 15 of which adhered to Lipinski's rule of five. These compounds exhibited diverse physicochemical properties and high binding affinity to NOS, with cleomiscosin D showing the greatest potential. In vivo, GBEE had significant neuroprotective effects on bilateral common carotid artery occlusion/reperfusion (BCCAO/R) in rats, especially at doses of 200mg/kg and 400mg/kg body weight. GBEE treatment improved brain function, as evidenced by EEG normalization, substantial reductions in cerebral infarction size, mitigated neuronal loss, and the restoration of regular histological arrangement in the CA1 hippocampal area of the brain. Furthermore, GBEE enhanced antioxidant defenses by augmenting the activity of catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD), reducing malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and restoring reduced glutathione (GSH) levels. These effects were accompanied by a decrease in nitric oxide (NO) levels, indicative of attenuated oxidative and nitrosative stress. Collectively, our findings suggest that GBEE is a promising natural therapeutic agent that may prevent or alleviate ischemic brain injury through a multifaceted mechanism involving NOS inhibition and attenuation of the oxidative stress response. This study highlights the therapeutic potential of GBEE and warrants further research into its mechanism of action and possible clinical applications.

Effects of transcranial direct current stimulation on different cognitive domains in Alzheimer's disease: a meta-study.

Numerous studies have investigated the potential effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on improving symptoms related to Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, these studies have produced inconsistent results, leading to a need for further investigation. A comprehensive search was conducted, including articles published from the initial availability date to 5 April 2024. The extracted study data were analyzed using STATA 12.0 software. The standard mean difference (SMD) and a 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated to assess the effects of tDCS. A total of 18 studies assessing the effects of tDCS on AD were included in the study. The study revealed that tDCS has an immediate positive impact on general cognitive, executive, language, and visuospatial function. However, the study did not observe any other significant effect of tDCS treatment on improvements in brain function, including long-term effects on general cognitive, attention, language, and memory function, as well as immediate effects on attention and memory function. In conclusion, the study suggests that tDCS may be a promising intervention for improving the cognitive function of patients with AD. However, given the complex and multifactorial nature of AD, further well-designed studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to clarify the effectiveness of tDCS and determine the optimal combination of tDCS parameters.

Enhancing Brain Elasticity: Key Lifestyle Habits to Unlock Genius Potential at Any Age

The brain is a masterpiece, often referred to as the king organ, as it governs the entire body. When the brain ceases to function, it marks the end of an individual's vitality, essentially rendering them a "vegetable." This profound importance raises a crucial question: Are we adequately nurturing and caring for our brains? In today's fast-paced world, humans often subject their brains to relentless stress and negative impulses, leading to cognitive decline. However, enhancing brain elasticity can be remarkably simple by adopting specific daily habits. These habits not only pamper the brain but also make it sharper and stronger. Key factors in boosting brain capacity include maintaining optimal hydration, engaging in IQ-enhancing non-digital games like chess and Scrabble, solving logical math problems, regular exercise, and meditation. Additionally, incorporating fruits and vegetables into the diet, consuming foods rich in Omega-3 and DHA, ensuring 8 hours of sleep, reducing screen time, learning new languages, playing various musical instruments, and fostering a positive and resilient mindset are vital. One crucial yet often overlooked habit is regular reading. Reading stimulates the brain, improves concentration, enhances vocabulary, and fosters a deeper understanding of diverse subjects, all of which contribute to increased cognitive flexibility and brain elasticity. Another important factor is maintaining good gut health. Recent research has shown that good gut bacteria play a crucial role in increasing brain activity. The gut-brain axis, a complex communication network, connects the gut and brain, allowing gut bacteria to influence cognitive functions. Probiotics and a diet rich in fiber can enhance the diversity and health of gut microbiota, leading to improved brain function and mental health. This review explores how these lifestyle practices contribute to cognitive enhancement, potentially transforming ordinary individuals into geniuses. It posits that genius is not an inherent trait but a result of deliberate and consistent mental engagement and nurturing. By embracing these strategies, including the habit of regular reading and maintaining good gut health, individuals can significantly elevate their cognitive abilities and achieve exceptional intellectual growth.

Molecular, Biochemical and Histological Assessment in Paraquat Induced Neurotoxicity: Restoring Role of Nano-curcumin in an Experimental Study

Abstract Background: Paraquat (PQ) is known to cause damage to various organs, including the brain. Although curcumin have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties, it is not yet clear how they relate to PQ-induced neurotoxicity. This study’s objective was to compare the effects of curcumin and nanocurcumin on PQ-induced neurotoxicity in male rats. Methods: 36 rats were randomly divided into 6 groups. control subjects and animals poisoned with PQ that received treatment with or without curcumin and nano-curcumin for 7 days. The brain tissues were collected at the end of this period. Total antioxidant capacity (TAC), lipid peroxidation (LPO), and total thiol groups (TTG) were assessed by using spectrophotometry. Moreover, the histopathology of brain and antioxidant gene expression were assessed by biochemical and reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) analysis. Results: Curcumin and nanocurcumin therapy alleviated the PQ-triggered oxidative stress in brain tissue by raising the levels of anti-oxidant biomarkers like TAC and TTG, up-regulating the expression of Nrf2, HO-1, and NQO-1, reducing the levels of oxidative stress indices like LPO, and down- regulating the expression of Keap-1 in brain tissue. Conclusions: Treatment with curcumin and nano-curcumin improves brain function in PQ toxicity and nanocurcumin was more advantageous than ordinary curcumin.

Can transcranial photobiomodulation improve cognitive function in TBI patients? A systematic review.

Transcranial photobiomodulation (tPBM) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technology which has become a promising therapy for treating many brain diseases. Although it has been confirmed in studies targeting neurological diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's that tPBM can improve cognitive function, the effectiveness of interventions targeting TBI patients remains to be determined. This systematic review examines the cognitive outcomes of clinical trials concerning tPBM in the treatment of traumatic brain injury (TBI). We conducted a systematic literature review, following the PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched before October 31, 2023. The initial search retrieved 131 articles, and a total of 6 studies were finally included for full text-analysis after applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results showed improvements in cognition for patients with chronic TBI after tPBM intervention. The mechanism may be that tPBM increases the volume of total cortical gray matter (GM), subcortical GM, and thalamic, improves cerebral blood flow (CBF), functional connectivity (FC), and cerebral oxygenation, improving brain function. However, due to the significant heterogeneity in application, we cannot summarize the optimal parameters for tPBM treatment of TBI. In addition, there is currently a lack of RCT studies in this field. Therefore, given this encouraging but uncertain finding, it is necessary to conduct randomized controlled clinical trials to further determine the role of tPBM in cognitive rehabilitation of TBI patients.

Is the MIND diet useful for polycystic ovary syndrome? A case-control study

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent cause of ovulatory infertility and endocrine abnormalities in reproductive-age women. Although the MIND diet has been introduced to improve brain function, evidence shows that the MIND diet is rich in beneficial food groups that can have a preventive effect on other metabolic disorders. The present study was conducted to investigate the association between adherence to the MIND diet and PCOS.MethodsThis age and BMI frequency-matched case-control study was conducted on 216 women between January 2018 and March 2019 in Yazd, Iran. PCOS was diagnosed based on Rotterdam criteria. Participants were selected by convenience sampling method. The validated 178-item food frequency questionnaire was used to assess the usual dietary intake. Logistic regression was used to estimate the association between the MIND diet and PCOS.ResultsThe findings of the present study showed a significant inverse association between adherence to the MIND diet and PCOS in the crude model (OR for T3 vs. T1: 0.12 (95% CI: 0.05–0.25), P-value < 0.001) and multivariable-adjusted model including energy intake, age, BMI, waist circumference, marital status, pregnancy history, drug use history, education and physical activity (OR for T3 vs. T1 = 0.08 (95% CI: 0.03–0.19), P-value < 0.001). Adherence to the MIND diet had a protective effect of 92%.ConclusionAlthough the results of the present study showed that higher adherence to the MIND diet is associated with a lower risk of PCOS, more studies are needed to confirm these findings in the future.

Nicotinamide riboside alleviates brain dysfunction induced by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion via protecting mitochondria

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH) is an enduring inadequate blood flow to the brain, resulting in vascular dementia (VaD). However, the effective treatment strategies are lacking. Supplementing with nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) has shown neuroprotective benefits in other neurodegenerative disorders. Nicotinamide riboside (NR), as a precursor of NAD+, is believed to hold promise in improving mitochondrial health, autophagy, and cognitive function. Meanwhile, NR has unique oral bioavailability, good tolerability, and minimal side effects, and it is the most promising for clinical translation. However, the effectiveness of NR in treating CCH-related VaD is still uncertain. The present study examined the neuroprotective effects of NR supplementation and its underlying mechanisms in a CCH rat model. The rats with CCH were given NR at a daily dosage of 400 mg/kg for 3 months. NR supplementation increased blood and brain NAD+ levels and improved brain function in CCH rats, including cognitive function and oxygenation capacity. It also reduced hippocampal neuronal loss and abnormalities and mitigated the decrease in dendritic spine density. The analysis of RNA sequencing in hippocampal tissue supports these findings. Electron microscopy and protein detection results suggest that NR may maintain mitochondrial structural integrity and exert a protective role by attenuating mitochondrial fission and impaired autophagy flux caused by CCH. In conclusion, these findings offer evidence for the neuroprotective potential of NR supplementation in ameliorating cognitive impairment induced by CCH.

From the gut to the brain: the long journey of phenolic compounds with neurocognitive effects.

The human gut microbiota is a complex community of micro-organisms that play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Recent research has shown that gut microbes also have a profound impact on brain function and cognition, leading to the concept of the gut-brain axis. One way in which the gut microbiota can influence the brain is through the bioconversion of polyphenols to other bioactive molecules. Phenolic compounds are a group of natural plant metabolites widely available in the human diet, which have anti-inflammatory and other positive effects on health. Recent studies have also suggested that some gut microbiota-derived phenolic metabolites may have neurocognitive effects, such as improving memory and cognitive function. The specific mechanisms involved are still being studied, but it is believed that phenolic metabolites may modulate neurotransmitter signaling, reduce inflammation, and enhance neural plasticity. Therefore, to exert a protective effect on neurocognition, dietary polyphenols or their metabolites must reach the brain, or act indirectly by producing an increase in bioactive molecules such as neurotransmitters. Once ingested, phenolic compounds are subjected to various processes (eg, metabolization by gut microbiota, absorption, distribution) before they cross the blood-brain barrier, perhaps the most challenging stage of their trajectory. Understanding the role of phenolic compounds in the gut-brain axis has important implications for the development of new therapeutic strategies for neurological and psychiatric disorders. By targeting the gut microbiota and its production of phenolic metabolites, it may be possible to improve brain function and prevent cognitive decline. In this article, the current state of knowledge on the endogenous generation of phenolic metabolites by the gut microbiota and how these compounds can reach the brain and exert neurocognitive effects was reviewed.

Digestion of whey peptide induces antioxidant and anti-inflammatory bioactivity on glial cells: Sequences identification and structural activity analysis

Whey derived peptides have shown potential activity improving brain function in pathological condition. However, there is little information about their mechanism of action on glial cells, which have important immune functions in brain. Astrocytes and microglia are essential in inflammatory and oxidative defense that take place in neurodegenerative disease. In this work we evaluate antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential bioactivity of whey peptide in glial cells. Peptides were formed during simulated gastrointestinal digestion (Infogest protocol), and low molecular weight (<5kDA) peptides (WPHf) attenuated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production induced by hydrogen peroxide stimulus in both cells in dose-dependent manner. WPHf induced an increase in the antioxidant glutathione (GSH) content and prevented GSH reduction induced by lipopolysaccharides (LPS) stimulus in astrocytes cells in a cell specific form. An increase in cytokine mRNA expression (TNFα and IL6) and nitric oxide secretion induced by LPS was attenuated by WPHf pre-treatment in both cells. The inflammatory pathway was dependent on NFκB activation. Bioactive peptide ranking analysis showed positive correlation with hydrophobicity and negative correlation with high molecular weights. The sequence identification revealed 19 peptides cross-referred with bioactive database. Whey peptides were rich in leucine, valine and tyrosine in the C-terminal region and lysine in the N-terminal region. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of whey peptides were assessed in glia cells and its mechanisms of action were related, such as modulation of antioxidant enzymes and anti-inflammatory pathways. Features of the peptide structure, such as molecular size, hydrophobicity and types of amino acids present in the terminal region are associated to bioactivity.