Enhanced neural activation with blueberry supplementation in mild cognitive impairment

Novel Nutraceutical Compounds in Alzheimer Prevention

Alzheimer's disease (AD) incidence is increasing worldwide at an alarming rate. Considering this increase, prevention efforts, stemming from scientific research, health education, and public policies, are critical. Clinical studies evidenced that healthy lifestyles along with natural multitarget and disease-modifying agents have a preventative impact on AD or mitigate symptoms in diagnosed patients. The pathological alterations of AD start 30 years before symptoms, and it is essential to develop the capacity to detect those changes. In this regard, molecular biomarkers that detect early pathological manifestations are helpful. Based on markers data, early preventive interventions could reduce more than 40% of AD cases. Protective actions include exercise, shown to induce neurogenesis, cognitive stimulation, intellectual-social activity, and nutrition among others. Mediterranean diet, preprobiotics, and nutraceuticals containing bioactive molecules with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are relevant. Antiprotein aggregation molecules whose mechanisms were described are important. Anti-inflammatory agents with anti-aggregation properties that help to control cognitive impairment, include quercetin, biocurcumin, rosemarinic acid, and Andean shilajit. Anthocyanidins, e.g., delphinidin, malvidin, and natural flavonoids, are also included. Quercetin and hydroxy-tyrosol are antiaging molecules and could have anti-AD properties. We emphasize the relevance of nutraceuticals as a main actor in the prevention and/or control of dementia and particularly AD.

Pelargonidin and Berry Intake Association with Alzheimer's Disease Neuropathology: A Community-Based Study

BACKGROUND

An anthocyanidin, pelargonidin, primarily found in berries, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and is associated with better cognition and reduced Alzheimer's dementia risk.

OBJECTIVE

This study investigated if pelargonidin or berry intake is associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD) neuropathology in human brains.

METHODS

The study was conducted among 575 deceased participants (age at death = 91.3±6.1 years; 70% females) of the Rush Memory and Aging Project, with dietary data (assessed using a food frequency questionnaire) and neuropathological evaluations. Calorie-adjusted pelargonidin intake was modeled in quartiles and berry intake as continuous (servings/week). Mean amyloid-beta load and phosphorylated tau neuronal neurofibrillary tangle density across multiple cortical regions were assessed using immunohistochemistry. Global AD pathology burden, a quantitative summary score of neurofibrillary tangles, and diffuse and neuritic plaques using Bielschowsky silver stains in multiple brain regions, was also assessed.

RESULTS

In a linear regression model adjusted for age at death, sex, education, APOE ɛ4 status, vitamin E, and vitamin C, participants in the highest quartile of pelargonidin intake when compared to those in the lowest quartile, had less amyloid-β load (β (SE) = -0.293 (0.14), p = 0.038), and fewer phosphorylated tau tangles (β (SE) = -0.310, p = 0.051). Among APOE ɛ4 non-carriers, higher strawberry (β (SE) = -0.227 (0.11), p = 0.037) and pelargonidin (Q4 versus Q1: β (SE) = -0.401 (0.16), p = 0.011; p trend = 0.010) intake was associated with less phosphorylated tau tangles, no association was observed in APOE ɛ4 carriers. Berry intake was not associated with AD pathology. However, excluding participants with dementia or mild cognitive impairment at baseline, strawberry (p = 0.004) and pelargonidin (ptrend = 0.007) intake were associated with fewer phosphorylated tau tangles.

CONCLUSION

Higher intake of pelargonidin, a bioactive present in strawberries, is associated with less AD neuropathology, primarily phosphorylated tau tangles.

Neurocognitive Effects of Cocoa and Red-Berries Consumption in Healthy Adults

In recent decades, the elderly population has increased at higher rates than any other population group, resulting in an increase in age-related diseases such as neurodegenerative and cognitive impairment. To address this global health problem, it is necessary to search for new dietary strategies that can prevent the main neurocognitive problems associated with the ageing process. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to analyze the effect of cocoa flavanols and red berry anthocyanins on brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor receptor (NGF-R) and to stablish the possible improvement in cognitive performance by using a battery of neurocognitive tests that included the Verbal Learning Test Spain-Complutense, the Spatial Recall Test 10/36 BRB-N, the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale III and IV, the STROOP Task and the Tower of London Test. A randomized, double-blind, parallel-group study was performed in 60 healthy volunteers between 50 and 75 years old who consumed a cocoa powder, a red berries mixture or a combination of both for 12 weeks. After the intervention, we observed a reduction in the time needed to start (p = 0.031) and finish (p = 0.018) the neurocognitive test known as the Tower of London in all groups, but the decrease in time to finish the task was more pronounced in the intervention with the combination of cocoa-red berries group. We failed to show any significant difference in BDNF and NGF-R sera levels. However we found a negative correlation between BDNF and the number of movements required to finish the TOL in women (p = 0.044). In conclusion, our study showed an improvement in executive function, without any change in neurotrofin levels, for all intervention arms.

Bilberry/red grape juice decreases plasma biomarkers of inflammation and tissue damage in aged men with subjective memory impairment -a randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Few randomized clinical trials have explored the health effects of bilberries in humans. The aim was to test the effect of bilberry and red grape-juice consumption on visual memory, motor speed and dexterity as well as inflammatory and tissue damage biomarkers of plasma in aged men with subjective memory impairment.

METHODS

Nine-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, dietary intervention study of aged men (n = 60, age ≥ 67 years) with subjective memory impairment randomized to consume a 50/50 mix of bilberry/red grape-juice or an iso-caloric placebo juice. A selection of Cambridge Cognition Test Battery (CANTAB), Grooved Pegboard tests and blood-sampling for biomarker analysis were performed before and after the intervention.

RESULTS

Compared to placebo the selected memory and motor test scores were un-affected by the bilberry/red grape intervention. However, the plasma levels of tissue damage biomarkers decreased significantly more in the bilberry/red grape group. In particular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) decreased from 362 U/L (median, baseline) to 346 U/L (median, post intervention) in the bilberry/red grape group. Also, several biomarkers of inflammation (EGF, IL6, IL9, IL10 and TNFα) decreased significantly more in the bilberry/red grape group. Furthermore, several plasma polyphenols; p-coumaric acid, hippuric acid, protocatechuic acid, 3HPAA and vanillic acid, increased significantly more in the bilberry/red grape group compared to placebo with the largest increase in p-coumaric acid with 116%; from 2.2 [1.0,5.5] to 4.7 [2.8,8.1] μM/L (median [95% CL]).

CONCLUSIONS

The results indicate that a nine-week bilberry/red grape juice intervention has no measurable effects on the selected memory scores in aged men experiencing memory problems but decreases the level of biomarkers of inflammation and tissue damage. Whether the dampening effects on inflammation and tissue damage biomarkers have relevance for neuroinflammatory brain pathology remains to be established.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Registration number ( ClinicalTrials.gov : NCT00972972 ), September 9, 2009.

Polyphenols and neuroprotection: Therapeutic implications for cognitive decline

Dietary polyphenols have been the focus of major interest for their potential benefits on human health. Several preclinical studies have been conducted to provide a rationale for their potential use as therapeutic agents in preventing or ameliorating cognitive decline. However, results from human studies are scarce and poorly documented. The aim of this review was to discuss the potential mechanisms involved in age-related cognitive decline or early stage cognitive impairment and current evidence from clinical human studies conducted on polyphenols and the aforementioned outcomes. The evidence published so far is encouraging but contrasting findings are to be taken into account. Most studies on anthocyanins showed a consistent positive effect on various cognitive aspects related to aging or early stages of cognitive impairment. Studies on cocoa flavanols, resveratrol, and isoflavones provided substantial contrasting results and further research is needed to clarify the therapeutic potential of these compounds. Results from other studies on quercetin, green tea flavanols, hydroxycinnamic acids (such as chlorogenic acid), curcumin, and olive oil tyrosol and derivatives are rather promising but still too few to provide any real conclusions. Future translational studies are needed to address issues related to dosage, optimal formulations to improve bioavailability, as well as better control for the overall diet, and correct target population.

Therapeutic approaches employing natural compounds and derivatives for treating bipolar disorder: emphasis on experimental models of the manic phase

Bipolar disorder (BD) is a complex psychiatric disease characterized by mood swings that include episodes of mania and depression. Given its cyclical nature, BD is especially hard to model; however, the standard practice has been to mimic manic episodes in animal models. Despite scientific advances, the pathophysiology of BD is not fully understood, and treatment remains limited. In the last years, natural products have emerged as potential neuroprotective agents for the treatment of psychiatric diseases. Thus, the aim of this review was to explore the therapeutic potential of natural compounds and derivatives against BD, taking into account preclinical and clinical studies. Reliable articles indexed in databases such as PubMed, Web of Science and Science Direct were used. In clinical studies, treatment with herbal plants extracts, omega-3, inositol, n-acetylcysteine and vitamin D has been associated with a clinical improvement in symptoms of mania and depression in BD patients. In animal models, it has been shown that red fruits extracts, curcumin, quercetin, gallic acid, alpha-lipoic acid and carvone can modulate many neurochemical pathways involved in the pathophysiology of manic episodes. Thus, this review appointed the advances in the consumption of natural compounds and derivatives as an important therapeutic strategy to mitigate the symptoms of BD.

Whole-plant foods and their macromolecules: untapped approaches to modulate neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder. Recently, sustained neuroinflammatory response in microglia and astrocytes has been found to cause the deposition of amyloid beta plaques and the hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, thereby accelerating AD progression. The lipoxin A4-transcription factor nuclear factor-kappa B and mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways have been shown to play important roles in the regulation of inflammatory processes. There is growing research-based evidence suggesting that dietary whole-plant foods, such as mushrooms and berries, may be used as inhibitors for anti-neuroinflammation. The beneficial effects of whole-plant foods were mainly attributed to their high contents of functional macromolecules including polysaccharides, polyphenols, and bioactive peptides. This review provides up-to-date information on important molecular signaling pathways of neuroinflammation and discusses the anti-neuroinflammatory effects of whole-plant foods. Further, a critical evaluation of plants' macromolecular components that have the potential to prevent and/or relieve AD is provided. This work will contribute to better understanding the pathogenetic mechanism of neuroinflammation in AD and provide new approaches for AD therapy.

Intake of Products Containing Anthocyanins, Flavanols, and Flavanones, and Cognitive Function: A Narrative Review

The purpose of this review is to examine human research studies published within the past 6 years which evaluate the role of anthocyanin, flavanol, and flavanone consumption in cognitive function, and to discuss potential mechanisms of action underlying any observed benefits. Evidence to date suggests the consumption of flavonoid-rich foods, such as berries and cocoa, may have the potential to limit, or even reverse, age-related declines in cognition. Over the last 6 years, the flavonoid subgroups of anthocyanins, flavanols, and flavanones have been shown to be beneficial in terms of conferring neuroprotection. The mechanisms by which flavonoids positively modulate cognitive function are yet to be fully elucidated. Postulated mechanisms include both direct actions such as receptor activation, neurotrophin release and intracellular signaling pathway modulation, and indirect actions such as enhancement of cerebral blood flow. Further intervention studies conducted in diverse populations with sufficient sample sizes and long durations are required to examine the effect of consumption of flavonoid groups on clinically relevant cognitive outcomes. As populations continue to focus on adopting healthy aging strategies, dietary interventions with flavonoids remains a promising avenue for future research. However, many questions are still to be answered, including identifying appropriate dosage, timeframes for intake, as well as the best form of flavonoids, before definitive conclusions can be drawn about the extent to which their consumption can protect the aging brain.

Anthocyanin-rich blueberry extracts and anthocyanin metabolite protocatechuic acid promote autophagy-lysosomal pathway and alleviate neurons damage in in vivo and in vitro models of Alzheimer's disease

OBJECTIVES

As the global aging phenomenon intensifies, the incidence of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is gradually increasing. Diet appears to be an effective way to prevent and delay the progression of AD. Previous studies have found that cognitive impairment and neuronal damage were effectively alleviated by blueberry extract (BBE) in AD mice, but its mechanism is still unclear. The aims of this study were to detect the main anthocyanins of BBE; then to verify the protective effects of anthocyanin-rich BBE on hippocampal neurons and the promotion of autophagy; and finally to investigate the main protective effects and mechanisms of protocatechuic acid (PCA), a major metabolite of BBE, for promoting autophagy and thus playing a neuroprotective role.

METHODS

APP/PS1 mice were given 150 mg/kg BBE daily for 16 wk. Morphology of neurons was observed and autophagy-related proteins were detected.

RESULTS

Neuron damage in morphology was reduced and the expression of autophagy-related proteins in APP/PS1 mice were promoted after BBE treatment. In vitro, Aβ_25-35-induced cytotoxicity, including decreased neuron viability and increased levels of lactate dehydrogenase and reactive oxygen species, was effectively reversed by PCA. Furthermore, by adding autophagy inducers rapamycin and autophagy inhibitors Bafilomycin A1, it was verified that degradation of autophagosomes was upregulated and autophagy was promoted by PCA.

CONCLUSION

This study elucidated the mechanism of BBE for reducing neuronal damage by promoting neuronal autophagy and proved PCA may be the main bioactive metabolite of BBE for neuroprotective effects, providing a basis for dietary intervention in AD.

Anthocyanins Promote Learning through Modulation of Synaptic Plasticity Related Proteins in an Animal Model of Ageing

Anthocyanin-rich foods, such as berries, reportedly ameliorate age-related cognitive deficits in both animals and humans. Despite this, investigation into the mechanisms which underpin anthocyanin-mediated learning and memory benefits remains relatively limited. The present study investigates the effects of anthocyanin intake on a spatial working memory paradigm, assessed via the cross-maze apparatus, and relates behavioural test performance to underlying molecular mechanisms. Six-week supplementation with pure anthocyanins (2% w/w), administered throughout the learning phase of the task, improved both spatial and psychomotor performances in aged rats. Behavioural outputs were accompanied by changes in the expression profile of key proteins integral to synaptic function/maintenance, with upregulation of dystrophin, protein kinase B (PKB/Akt) and tyrosine hydroxylase, and downregulation of apoptotic proteins B-cell lymphoma-extra-large (Bcl-xL) and the phosphorylated rapidly accelerated fibrosarcoma (p-Raf). Separate immunoblot analysis supported these observations, indicating increased activation of extracellular signal-related kinase (ERK1), Akt Ser473, mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) Ser2448, activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc/Arg 3.1) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in response to anthocyanin treatment, whilst α-E-catenin, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK1) and p38 protein levels decreased. Together, these findings suggest that purified anthocyanin consumption enhances spatial learning and motor coordination in aged animals and can be attributed to the modulation of key synaptic proteins, which support integrity and maintenance of synaptic function.

Functional MRI-Specific Alterations in Salience Network in Mild Cognitive Impairment: An ALE Meta-Analysis

Background Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is an intermediate stage between normal aging and dementia. Amnestic MCI (aMCI) and non-amnestic MCI are the two subtypes of MCI with the former having a higher risk for progressing to Alzheimer's disease (AD). Compared with healthy elderly adults, individuals with MCI have specific functional alterations in the salience network (SN). However, no consistent results are documenting these changes. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the specific functional alterations in the SN in MCI and aMCI. Methods: We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science for scientific neuroimaging literature based on three research methods, namely, functional connectivity (FC), regional homogeneity (ReHo), and the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation or fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF/fALFF). Then, we conducted the coordinate-based meta-analysis by using the activation likelihood estimation algorithm. Results: In total, 30 functional neuroimaging studies were included. After extracting the data and analyzing it, we obtained specific changes in some brain regions in the SN including decreased ALFF/fALFF in the left superior temporal gyrus, the insula, the precentral gyrus, and the precuneus in MCI and aMCI; increased FC in the thalamus, the caudate, the superior temporal gyrus, the insula, and the cingulate gyrus in MCI; and decreased ReHo in the anterior cingulate gyrus in aMCI. In addition, as to FC, interactions of the SN with other networks including the default mode network and the executive control network were also observed mainly in the middle frontal gyrus and superior frontal gyrus in MCI and inferior frontal gyrus in aMCI. Conclusions: Specific functional alternations in the SN and interactions of the SN with other networks in MCI could be useful as potential imaging biomarkers for MCI or aMCI. Meanwhile, it provided a new insight in predicting the progression of health to MCI or aMCI and novel targets for proper intervention to delay the progression. Systematic Review Registration: [PROSPERO], identifier [No. CRD42020216259].

Management Based on Multimodal Brain Monitoring May Improve Functional Connectivity and Post-operative Neurocognition in Elderly Patients Undergoing Spinal Surgery

Perioperative neurocognitive disorder (PND) is a common condition in elderly patients undergoing surgery. Sedation, analgesia, regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSO₂), and body temperature are known to be associated with PND, but few studies have examined the contribution of these factors combined in detail. This prospective, randomized, controlled, double-blinded study investigated whether anesthesia management based on multimodal brain monitoring—an anesthesia management algorithm designed by our group—could improve the post-operative cognitive function and brain functional connectivity (FC) in elderly patients undergoing elective spinal surgery with general anesthesia. The patients (aged ≥65 years) were randomized into two groups [control (Group C), n = 12 and intervention (Group I), n = 14]. Patients in Group I were managed with multimodal brain monitoring (patient state index, spectral edge frequency, analgesia nociception index, rSO₂, and temperature), and those in Group C were managed with routine anesthesia management. All patients were pre- and post-operatively evaluated (7 days after surgery) with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) and FC were analyzed after resting-state functional MRI. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) and lipopolysaccharide levels were measured, and the correlation between FC and changes in inflammatory marker levels was analyzed. Mean post-operative MoCA score was higher in Group I (24.80 ± 2.09) than in Group C (22.56 ± 2.24) (p = 0.04), with no difference in PND incidence between groups (28.57 vs. 16.67%; p = 0.47). Group I also showed significantly increased ALFF values in several brain regions after surgery (p < 0.05), and FC between the left hippocampus and left orbital inferior frontal gyrus (FG), left middle FG, left superior temporal gyrus, and left precentral gyrus was enhanced (p < 0.05), which was negatively correlated with the change in serum CRP (pre vs. post-intervention) (R = −0.58, p = 0.01). These results suggest that management of elderly patients undergoing surgery by multimodal brain monitoring may improve post-operative neurocognition and FC by reducing systemic inflammation.

Clinical Trial Registration:http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.aspx, identifier: ChiCTR1900028024.

Effects of Berry Anthocyanins on Cognitive Performance, Vascular Function and Cardiometabolic Risk Markers: A Systematic Review of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Intervention Studies in Humans

Supplementation with anthocyanins, which are a type of flavonoids mainly found in various berries, is hypothesized to be a promising approach to lower the risk of developing cognitive decline. The aim of this systematic review was to provide a comprehensive overview of dietary intervention trials describing effects of berry anthocyanins on cognitive performance in humans, while also addressing potential underlying mechanisms. A total of 1197 articles were identified through a systematic search, and 49 studies reporting effects on cognitive performance (n = 18), vascular function (n = 22), or cardiometabolic risk markers (n = 32) were included. Significant improvements were observed on memory, while some of the studies also reported effects on attention and psychomotor speed or executive function. Vascular function markers such as brachial artery flow-mediated vasodilation were also affected and consistent evidence was provided for the beneficial effects of berry anthocyanins on endothelial function. Finally, studies reported improvements in blood pressure, but effects on metabolic risk markers (e.g. carbohydrate and lipid metabolism) were less consistent. In conclusion, this review provides evidence for the beneficial effects of berry anthocyanins on cognitive performance as memory improved. Whether observed anthocyanin-induced improvements in vascular function and blood pressure underlie beneficial effects on cognitive performance warrants further study.

Blueberry intervention improves metabolic syndrome risk factors: systematic review and meta-analysis

Recent studies have found that blueberry supplementation can improve parameters related to metabolic syndrome (MetS); however, there is no definitive consensus. Analysis of several randomized controlled trials can demonstrate whether a reduced effect of MetS risk factors is more pronounced in individuals who received supplementation with blueberry than in individuals who did not receive this supplementation. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to investigate the effect of blueberry intervention on MetS risk factors, including blood pressure, anthropometric measurements, and glycemic and lipid profiles. PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and SciELO were systematically searched to identify relevant studies published before July 2020. To compare the effects of blueberry supplements (powder, extract, fruit, juice, or frozen) with placebo, the mean differences with 95 % confidence intervals (CI) were pooled based on the random-effects model. We classified the quality of evidence according to the GRADE approach. In total, 18 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in this systematic review, and 12 studies were selected for meta-analysis. Based on the Cochrane Collaboration risk-of-bias tool, all studies were of good quality. These trials differed with regards to blueberry dosage and forms, recruited subjects, and trial duration. Meta-analyses of the data showed that blueberry intervention had a significant effect on lipid levels, decreasing total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels. We found no significant differences in the glycemic status markers and anthropometric measurements. Blueberry supplementation significantly decreased diastolic blood pressure. In conclusion, the meta-analysis showed that blueberry may be efficacious in the treatment of MetS, due to its beneficial effects on lipid and blood pressure markers.

Current Quest in Natural Bioactive Compounds for Alzheimer's Disease: Multi-Targeted-Designed-Ligand Based Approach with Preclinical and Clinical Based Evidence

Alzheimer's disease is a common and most chronic neurological disorder (NDs) associated with cognitive dysfunction. Pathologically, Alzheimer's disease (AD) is characterized by the presence of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques, hyper-phosphorylated tau proteins, and neurofibrillary tangles, however, persistence oxidative-nitrative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammatory cytokines, pro-apoptotic proteins along with altered neurotransmitters level are common etiological attributes in its pathogenesis. Rivastigmine, memantine, galantamine, and donepezil are FDA approved drugs for symptomatic management of AD, whereas tacrine has been withdrawn because of hepatotoxic profile. These approved drugs only exert symptomatic relief and exhibit poor patient compliance. In the current scenario, the number of published evidence shows the neuroprotective potential of naturally occurring bioactive molecules via their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiapoptotic and neurotransmitter modulatory properties. Despite their potent therapeutic implications, concerns have arisen in context to their efficacy and probable clinical outcome. Thus, to overcome these glitches, many heterocyclic and cyclic hydrocarbon compounds inspired by natural sources have been synthesized and showed improved therapeutic activity. Computational studies (molecular docking) have been used to predict the binding affinity of these natural bioactive as well as synthetic compounds derived from natural sources for the acetylcholine esterase, α/β secretase Nuclear Factor kappa- light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-kB), Nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2) and other neurological targets. Thus, in this review, we have discussed the molecular etiology of AD, focused on the pharmacotherapeutics of natural products, chemical and pharmacological aspects and multi-targeted designed ligands (MTDLs) of synthetic and semisynthetic molecules derived from the natural sources along with some important on-going clinical trials.

Potential Therapeutic Effects of New Ruthenium (III) Complex with Quercetin: Characterization, Structure, Gene Regulation, and Antitumor and Anti-Inflammatory Studies (RuIII/Q Novel Complex Is a Potent Immunoprotective Agent)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of the new [Ru(Q)(Cl)2(H2O)2] complex (RuIII/Q). A new vital complex containing quercetin flavonoid compound (Q) with ruthenium (III) ions was synthesized. The molar conductivity of the RuIII/Q complex was measured in dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) with value 12 (Ω−1 mol−1 cm−1, indicating their non-electrolytic nature. Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopic investigation of the RuIII/Q complex indicated that Q is coordinated as a bidentate with Ru metal ions through the oxygen of carbonyl C(4)=O group and oxygen of phenolic C(3)−O group based on the wavenumber shifts at 1654 and 1335 cm−1 respectively. The electronic (UV−Vis) spectra and the magnetic susceptibility value (1.85 B.M.) revealed that the Ru(III) complex has an octahedral geometry. The average diameter of the RuIII/Q nanoparticles was approximately 7–15 nm according to the transmission electron microscopy. The thermogravimetric study (TG/DTG) indicates that the RuIII/Q compound is quite stable until 300 °C. To assess biological activity, 60 male rats were allocated to six groups, namely control, DG (D-galactose), Q, RuIII/Q, DG plus Q, and DG plus RuIII/Q. Antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, GPx, and GRx), markers of lipid peroxidation (such as MDA), expression of genes (namely Nrf2, Cu-ZnSOD, CAT, GPx, cyto c, P53, Bax, BCl2, caspase-3, and caspase-9 in testicular tissue), glutamate, 4-hydroxynonenal (HNE), GSH, HCY, amyloid beta, and GABA levels were evaluated in brain tissues. Cytokines, such as IL-6 and TNF-α, histological and ultrastructural studies were estimated in both the brain and testicular tissues, while the comet assay was performed in the brain tissue. RuIII/Q administration either alone or combined with DG reduced oxidative injury to normal levels and decreased apoptotic activities. Thus, RuIII/Q inhibited injury in both the testis and brain and reduced oxidative stress in male rats. The (RuIII/Q) complex has a potent ameliorative effect against aging neurotoxicity, reproductive toxicity, and antihepatic cancer activity induced by D-galactose (DG).

Impact of Polyphenolic-Food on Longevity: An Elixir of Life. An Overview

Aging and, particularly, the onset of age-related diseases are associated with tissue dysfunction and macromolecular damage, some of which can be attributed to accumulation of oxidative damage. Recently, growing interest has emerged on the beneficial effects of plant-based diets for the prevention of chronic diseases including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Several studies collectively suggests that the intake of polyphenols and their major food sources may exert beneficial effects on improving insulin resistance and related diabetes risk factors, such as inflammation and oxidative stress. They are the most abundant antioxidants in the diet, and their intake has been associated with a reduced aging in humans. Polyphenolic intake has been shown to be effective at ameliorating several age-related phenotypes, including oxidative stress, inflammation, impaired proteostasis, and cellular senescence, both in vitro and in vivo. In this paper, effects of these phytochemicals (either pure forms or polyphenolic-food) are reviewed and summarized according to affected cellular signaling pathways. Finally, the effectiveness of the anti-aging preventive action of nutritional interventions based on diets rich in polyphenolic food, such as the diets of the Blue zones, are discussed.

The effects of polyphenols-rich tropical fruit juice on cognitive function and metabolomics profile - a randomized controlled trial in middle-aged women

Objectives: Polyphenols, particularly anthocyanins, have received attention in improving health issues during old age, including decline in cognitive function and other health parameters. We aimed to determine the effects of polyphenols-rich tropical fruit TP 3-in-1™ juice towards improving cognitive function, oxidative stress and metabolomics profiles among middle-aged women.Methods: This clinical trial involved 31 subjects with signs of poor cognitive function, as assessed using the Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test (RAVLT). They were randomized to receive either TP 3-in-1™ juice (n = 16) or placebo (n = 15). Study subjects consumed 500 ml of beverages for three times per day, three days per week, for a period of ten weeks. Juice supplementation provided 9135 mg GAE of total phenolic content and 194.1 mg cyanidin-3-glucoside of total anthocyanin monomer.Results: There was a significant interaction effects on RAVLT immediate recall (p < 0.05) and Comprehensive Trail Making Test (CTMT) Trail 4 (p < 0.05). Metabolomics analysis showed the presence of metabolites related to polyphenols intake and cognitive functions with the intervention group showed increased urinary excretion of thyroxine and 3-methyladenine. Thyroxine and 3-methyladenine give stability to human transthyretin (TTR) and activate autophagy, respectively, which are associated with the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease.Conclusion: The result shows the potential of TP 3-in-1™ juice which is rich in anthocyanins in improving cognitive function, particularly learning, memory, processing speed, sequencing, mental flexibility and visual-motor skills domains, among middle-aged women.

Blueberry Supplementation in Neuronal Health and Protective Technologies for Efficient Delivery of Blueberry Anthocyanins

Blueberries are consumed as healthy fruits that provide a variety of benefits to the nervous system. Scientists have found that blueberries can be used as a daily edible source for supplementation to prevent and minimize complexities of age-related diseases as well as to improve learning and memory in children. Anthocyanins are the most mentioned compounds among the components in blueberries, as they play a major role in providing the health benefits of this fruit. However, while they are highly active in impeding biological impairment in neuronal functions, they have poor bioavailability. This review focuses on neurological investigations of blueberries from in vitro cell studies to in vivo studies, including animal and human studies, with respect to their positive outcomes of neuroprotection and intervention in neurodegenerative conditions. Readers will also find information on the bioavailability of anthocyanins and the considerable factors affecting them so that they can make informed decisions regarding the daily consumption of blueberries. In this context, the ways in which blueberries or blueberry supplementation forms are consumed and which of these forms is best for maximizing the health benefits of blueberries should be considered important decision-making factors in the consumption of blueberries; all of these aspects are covered in this review. Finally, we discuss recent technologies that have been employed to improve the bioavailability of blueberry anthocyanins in the development of effective delivery vehicles supporting brain health.

Preventing dementia? Interventional approaches in mild cognitive impairment

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) is defined as an intermediate state between normal cognitive aging and dementia. It describes a status of the subjective impression of cognitive decline and objectively detectible memory impairment beyond normal age-related changes. Activities of daily living are not affected. As the population ages, there is a growing need for early, proactive programs that can delay the consequences of dementia and improve the well-being of people with MCI and their caregivers. Various forms and approaches of intervention for older people with MCI have been suggested to delay cognitive decline. Pharmacological as well as non-pharmacological approaches (cognitive, physiological, nutritional supplementation, electric stimulation, psychosocial therapeutic) and multicomponent interventions have been proposed. Interventional approaches in MCI from 2009 to April 2019 concerning the cognitive performance are presented in this review.

Effect of Polyphenols on Cognitive Function: Evidence from Population-Based Studies and Clinical Trials

Due to progressive population aging, a new dementia case occurs at every 3 seconds, placing a heavy burden of disease. Identifying potential risk or preventive factors is emphasized owing to a lack of effective treatment for dementia. There has been emerging evidence on the link of certain dietary components, particularly polyphenols, to brain wellness and cognitive outcomes. Findings from animal and in vitro studies appear more consistent and conclusive. However, such an association has not been investigated in depth in human beings. In this review, we examined studies on the effect of dietary polyphenols (including flavonoids, curcumin, and resveratrol) on cognitive function. Intervention in early stages of dementia/Alzheimer's disease might be a target to slow down age-related cognitive decline before disease onset. We summarized 28 epidemiological studies (8 cross-sectional and 20 cohort studies) and 55 trials in this review. Preliminary evidence from epidemiological data provides the necessity for intervention trials, even though the measures of polyphenol intake tend to be less precise. Clinical trials are in favor of the role of some polyphenols in benefiting specific domains of cognition. This review also describes the divergence of results and current limitations of research in this field.

Promoting Successful Cognitive Aging: A Ten-Year Update

A decade has passed since we published a comprehensive review in this journal addressing the topic of promoting successful cognitive aging, making this a good time to take stock of the field. Because there have been limited large-scale, randomized controlled trials, especially following individuals from middle age to late life, some experts have questioned whether recommendations can be legitimately offered about reducing the risk of cognitive decline and dementia. Despite uncertainties, clinicians often need to at least make provisional recommendations to patients based on the highest quality data available. Converging lines of evidence from epidemiological/cohort studies, animal/basic science studies, human proof-of-concept studies, and human intervention studies can provide guidance, highlighting strategies for enhancing cognitive reserve and preventing loss of cognitive capacity. Many of the suggestions made in 2010 have been supported by additional research. Importantly, there is a growing consensus among major health organizations about recommendations to mitigate cognitive decline and promote healthy cognitive aging. Regular physical activity and treatment of cardiovascular risk factors have been supported by all of these organizations. Most organizations have also embraced cognitively stimulating activities, a heart-healthy diet, smoking cessation, and countering metabolic syndrome. Other behaviors like regular social engagement, limiting alcohol use, stress management, getting adequate sleep, avoiding anticholinergic medications, addressing sensory deficits, and protecting the brain against physical and toxic damage also have been endorsed, although less consistently. In this update, we review the evidence for each of these recommendations and offer practical advice about behavior-change techniques to help patients adopt brain-healthy behaviors.

Blueberry benefits to cognitive function across the lifespan

It is well known that what we eat can influence our physical wellbeing, but interest is also increasing in the relationship between our diet and cognitive health. In recent years, blueberries have risen from relative obscurity to superfood status following a number of published epidemiological studies, rodent trials, and human RCTs, that suggest blueberries may convey benefits to cognition and mood. This commentary explores some of the evidence in humans, particularly during periods of cognitive development in the young and cognitive decline in the elderly. Evidence for possible mechanisms of action are also described. There is little doubt that blueberries convey a small, but tangible, benefit to cognitive function. Effects are seen following dose sizes easily achievable within a normal diet. Nevertheless, further research is needed on the cognitive domains influenced, additional benefits of longer-term supplementation, mechanisms of action responsible, and the real-world relevance of the cognitive benefits attained.

A new category-specific nutrient rich food (NRF9f.3) score adds flavonoids to assess nutrient density of fruit

Nutrient profiling (NP) models, intended to capture the full nutritional value of plant-based foods, ought to incorporate bioactive phytochemicals, including flavonoids, in addition to standard nutrients. The well-established Nutrient Rich Food (NRF9.3) score is based on 9 nutrients to encourage (protein, fiber, vitamins A, C, D and calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium) and 3 nutrients to limit (saturated fat, added sugar, sodium). The new category-specific NRF9f.3 score kept the same algorithm based on sums of percent daily values (%DVs) but swapped vitamin D for total flavonoids from the USDA database. NRF9f.3 was applied to the USDA fruit group categories, comparing nutrient density of citrus fruit, citrus juice, dried fruit, raw and cooked fruit, berries, fruit mixtures, fruit salads, non-citrus fruit juice, and fruit nectars. Adding total flavonoids to NRF9f.3 allowed for a recalibration of fruit total nutritional value. Citrus fruits and juices had significantly higher flavanones, berries had significantly higher anthocyanidins, and dried fruit and berries had significantly higher flavan-3-ols, than other fruits (all p < 0.05). Citrus fruit, citrus juice and berries had significantly higher NRFf9.3 scores than all other fruit subcategories (p < 0,05), but were not different from each other. The more innovative NP models are both category specific and make effective use of new nutrient composition databases. NRF9.3 when applied to the fruit group discriminates primarily on fiber, vitamin C, and added sugar content. Incorporating flavonoid and polyphenol data modernizes NP models to better capture nutrient density of plant foods that can aid in dietary guidance and policy development to improve diversity and nutritional value of the diet.

Classification of Different Blueberry Cultivars by Analysis of Physical Factors, Chemical and Nutritional Ingredients, and Antioxidant Capacities

Blueberry fruits of different cultivars are featured with different quality indices. In this work, three types of quality factors, including 6 physical parameters, 12 chemical and nutritional components, and 3 antioxidant indices, were measured to compare and classify blueberry fruits from 12 different cultivars in China. Using the autoscaled data of quality factors, unsupervised principal component analysis was performed for exploratory analysis of intercultivar differences and the influences of quality factors. A supervised classification method, partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLSDA), was combined with the global particle swarm optimization algorithm (PSO) and two multiclass strategies, one-versus-rest (OVR) and one-versus-one (OVO), to select discriminative quality factors and develop classification models of the 12 cultivars. As a result, OVO-PLSDA with 8 quality factors could achieve the classification accuracy of 0.915. This study will provide new insights into the quality variations and key factors among different blueberry cultivars.

An update on magnetic resonance imaging markers in AD

The purpose of the present review is to provide an update of the available recent scientific literature on the use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in Alzheimer's disease (AD). MRI is playing an increasingly important role in the characterization of the AD signatures, which can be useful in both the diagnostic process and monitoring of disease progression. Furthermore, this technique is unique in assessing brain structure and function and provides a deep understanding of in vivo evolution of cerebral pathology. In the reviewing process, we established a priori criteria and we thoroughly searched the very recent scientific literature (January 2018-March 2020) for relevant articles on this topic. In summary, we selected 73 articles out of 1654 publications retrieved from PubMed. Based on this selection, this review summarizes the recent application of MRI in clinical trials, defining the predementia stages of AD, the clinical utility of MRI, proposal of novel biomarkers and brain regions of interest, and assessing the relationship between MRI and cognitive features, risk and protective factors of AD. Finally, the value of a multiparametric approach in clinical and preclinical stages of AD is discussed.

Anthocyanins: A Comprehensive Review of Their Chemical Properties and Health Effects on Cardiovascular and Neurodegenerative Diseases

Anthocyanins are a class of water-soluble flavonoids widely present in fruits and vegetables. Dietary sources of anthocyanins include red and purple berries, grapes, apples, plums, cabbage, or foods containing high levels of natural colorants. Cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin, peonidin, petunidin, and pelargonidin are the six common anthocyanidins. Following consumption, anthocyanin, absorption occurs along the gastrointestinal tract, the distal lower bowel being the place where most of the absorption and metabolism occurs. In the intestine, anthocyanins first undergo extensive microbial catabolism followed by absorption and human phase II metabolism. This produces hybrid microbial-human metabolites which are absorbed and subsequently increase the bioavailability of anthocyanins. Health benefits of anthocyanins have been widely described, especially in the prevention of diseases associated with oxidative stress, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases. Furthermore, recent evidence suggests that health-promoting effects attributed to anthocyanins may also be related to modulation of gut microbiota. In this paper we attempt to provide a comprehensive view of the state-of-the-art literature on anthocyanins, summarizing recent findings on their chemistry, biosynthesis, nutritional value and on their effects on human health.

Potential health benefits of (poly)phenols derived from fruit and 100% fruit juice

(Poly)phenol-rich diets have been associated with reduced risk of various diseases. Coffee and tea are typically identified as dietary sources of chlorogenic acid and flavan-3-ols; however, 100% fruit juice greatly contributes to anthocyanin, flavonol, flavan-3-ols, and flavanone intake, making them complementary sources of dietary (poly)phenols. Thus, the aim of this narrative review was to provide an overview of fruit (poly)phenols and their potential health benefits. Fruit (poly)phenols have been associated with several health benefits (eg, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and neurocognitive benefits). Although perspectives on 100% fruit juice consumption are controversial due to the perception of sugar content, growing evidence supports the role of fruit in whole and 100% juice forms to provide consumer benefits in alignment with dietary guidance. However, differences in (poly)phenol profiles and bioavailability likely exist between whole fruit and 100% fruit juice due to processing and the presence/absence of fiber. Ongoing studies are better defining similarities and differences between whole fruit and 100% fruit juice to elucidate protective mechanisms and align with processing and consumer products.

Metabolic Impact of Flavonoids Consumption in Obesity: From Central to Peripheral

The prevention and treatment of obesity is primary based on the follow-up of a healthy lifestyle, which includes a healthy diet with an important presence of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols. For many years, the health benefits of polyphenols have been attributed to their anti-oxidant capacity as free radical scavengers. More recently it has been described that polyphenols activate other cell-signaling pathways that are not related to ROS production but rather involved in metabolic regulation. In this review, we have summarized the current knowledge in this field by focusing on the metabolic effects of flavonoids. Flavonoids are widely distributed in the plant kingdom where they are used for growing and defensing. They are structurally characterized by two benzene rings and a heterocyclic pyrone ring and based on the oxidation and saturation status of the heterocyclic ring flavonoids are grouped in seven different subclasses. The present work is focused on describing the molecular mechanisms underlying the metabolic impact of flavonoids in obesity and obesity-related diseases. We described the effects of each group of flavonoids in liver, white and brown adipose tissue and central nervous system and the metabolic and signaling pathways involved on them.

Polyphenols From Grape and Blueberry Improve Episodic Memory in Healthy Elderly with Lower Level of Memory Performance: A Bicentric Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Study

Polyphenols are promising nutritional bioactives exhibiting beneficial effect on age-related cognitive decline. This study evaluated the effect of a polyphenol-rich extract from grape and blueberry (PEGB) on memory of healthy elderly subjects (60-70 years-old). A bicentric, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with 215 volunteers receiving 600 mg/day of PEGB (containing 258 mg flavonoids) or a placebo for 6 months. The primary outcome was the CANTAB Paired Associate Learning (PAL), a visuospatial learning and episodic memory test. Secondary outcomes included verbal episodic and recognition memory (VRM) and working memory (SSP). There was no significant effect of PEGB on the PAL on the whole cohort. Yet, PEGB supplementation improved VRM-free recall. Stratifying the cohort in quartiles based on PAL at baseline revealed a subgroup with advanced cognitive decline (decliners) who responded positively to the PEGB. In this group, PEGB consumption was also associated with a better VRM-delayed recognition. In addition to a lower polyphenol consumption, the urine metabolomic profile of decliners revealed that they excreted more metabolites. Urinary concentrations of specific flavan-3-ols metabolites were associated, at the end of the intervention, with the memory improvements. Our study demonstrates that PEGB improves age-related episodic memory decline in individuals with the highest cognitive impairments.

Systematic Review of the Effects of Blueberry on Cognitive Performance as We Age

The effect of flavonoid-rich food, such as blueberries, on cognitive function has been subject to a growing amount of research interest in recent years. Epidemiological, prospective, preclinical, and clinical trials have revealed positive cognitive benefits from flavonoid interventions, particularly in relation to the amelioration of cognitive decline in older adults. This review will specifically consider the existing clinical research from both acute and chronic blueberry interventions on cognition in human subjects. The results of 11 studies are reported with 4 studies considering blueberry intervention with children aged 7-10 years, 4 considering adults aged 60 years and older, and 3 considering adults suffering from mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Findings from these studies indicate that cognitive benefits may be found for delayed memory and executive function in children and for delayed memory, executive function, and psychomotor function in older healthy and MCI adults. There is less evidence to suggest positive benefits of blueberry intervention on working memory. Recommendations for future research, including dose used, cognitive tasks, and age groups considered, are proposed.

Dietary Flavonoids Interaction with CREB-BDNF Pathway: An Unconventional Approach for Comprehensive Management of Epilepsy

cAMP response element binding protein (CREB) is a key transcriptional regulator that regulates the transcription of genes related with neuronal differentiation, synaptic plasticity, learning and memory. Brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), is a CREB dependent gene which plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of epilepsy and central comorbid conditions associated with epilepsy. However, the beneficial or detrimental consequences of CREB-BDNF activation on the induction and/or progression of seizures depend specifically on the region of brain involved and the time of activation. The bioactive molecules that alter the activity of CREB in a way to have specialized effects in different brain regions and neural circuits involved could potentially be utilized for therapeutic purposes. Flavonoids are the polyphenolic compounds which lead to phosphorylation of CREB in the hippocampus, followed by increase in extracellular signal regulated kinase (ERK) and BDNF. Several members of flavonoid family have also showed suppression of epileptic seizures via interaction with CREB/BDNF pathway. Moreover, epilepsy is often accompanied by a number of behavioural and psychological comorbid conditions that further gets aggravated by the use of conventional antiepileptic drug therapy. Multiple studies have also supported the beneficial effects of flavonoids in cognitive and memory impairments by upregulation of CREB-BDNF pathway. The current review is an attempt to collate the available preclinical and clinical studies to establish the therapeutic potential of various dietary flavonoids in comprehensive management of epilepsy with relation to CREB-BDNF pathway.

The Colors of Health: Chemistry, Bioactivity, and Market Demand for Colorful Foods and Natural Food Sources of Colorants

There is an increasing consumer demand for natural colors in foods. However, there is a limited number of available natural food sources for use by the food industry because of technical and regulatory limitations. Natural colors are less stable and have less vibrant hues compared to their synthetic color counterparts. Natural pigments also have known health benefits that are seldom leveraged by the food industry. Betalains, carotenoids, phycocyanins, and anthocyanins are major food colorants used in the food industry that have documented biological effects, particularly in the prevention and management of chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cardiovascular disease. The color industry needs new sources of stable, functional, and safe natural food colorants. New opportunities include sourcing new colors from microbial sources and via the use of genetic biotechnology. In all cases, there is an imperative need for toxicological evaluation to pave the way for their regulatory approval.

Recent Research on the Health Benefits of Blueberries and Their Anthocyanins

Awareness of the human health benefits of blueberries is underpinned by a growing body of positive scientific evidence from human observational and clinical research, plus mechanistic research using animal and in vitro models. Blueberries contain a large number of phytochemicals, including abundant anthocyanin pigments. Of their various phytochemicals, anthocyanins probably make the greatest impact on blueberry health functionality. Epidemiological studies associate regular, moderate intake of blueberries and/or anthocyanins with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, death, and type 2 diabetes, and with improved weight maintenance and neuroprotection. These findings are supported by biomarker-based evidence from human clinical studies. Among the more important healthful aspects of blueberries are their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant actions and their beneficial effects on vascular and glucoregulatory function. Blueberry phytochemicals may affect gastrointestinal microflora and contribute to host health. These aspects have implications in degenerative diseases and conditions as well as the aging process. More evidence, and particularly human clinical evidence, is needed to better understand the potential for anthocyanin-rich blueberries to benefit public health. However, it is widely agreed that the regular consumption of tasty, ripe blueberries can be unconditionally recommended.

The effect of blueberry interventions on cognitive performance and mood: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials

Blueberries are rich in polyphenols that may be beneficial to cognitive performance and mood. The aim of this systematic review was to evaluate randomized controlled trials investigating the effects of blueberries and blueberry products on measures of cognition and mood. In total, eleven articles (that included 12 studies) were identified using freeze-dried blueberries (n = 9 studies), whole blueberries (n = 2) and blueberry concentrate (n = 1). These studies were conducted in children (n = 5), young adults (n = 1), and older people with either no known cognitive impairment (n = 4) or indicated cognitive impairment (n = 2). Eight studies reported blueberry consumption or supplementation at various doses and time lengths to improve measures of cognitive performance, particularly short- and long-term memory and spatial memory. For mood, one study reported significant between-group improvements in positive affect from blueberry products, whereas four studies reported no improvement. Low risk of bias were observed across all studies. Based on the current evidence, blueberries may improve some measures of cognitive performance. However, considerable differences in study design, dosages, and anthocyanin content hinder between-study comparison. The use of standardized blueberry interventions, consideration of placebo formulations, and consistently reported cognitive performance tools are recommended in future trials. PROSPERO registration no. CRD42018100888.

Fruits

Fruits come in a wide variety of colors, shapes, and flavors. This chapter will cover selected fruits that are known to be healthy and highly nutritious. These fruits were chosen due to their common usage and availability. Since it is not possible to cover all health benefits or essential nutrients and important phytochemicals of the fruit composition, this chapter will focus on the key valuable constituents and their potential health effects.

D-Galactose-induced accelerated aging model: an overview

To facilitate the process of aging healthily and prevent age-related health problems, efforts to properly understand aging mechanisms and develop effective and affordable anti-aging interventions are deemed necessary. Systemic administration of D-galactose has been established to artificially induce senescence in vitro and in vivo as well as for anti-aging therapeutic interventions studies. The aim of this article is to comprehensively discuss the use of D-galactose to generate a model of accelerated aging and its possible underlying mechanisms involved in different tissues/organs.

Blueberry Supplementation Mitigates Altered Brain Plasticity and Behavior after Traumatic Brain Injury in Rats

SCOPE

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) compromises neuronal function required for hippocampal synaptic plasticity and cognitive function. Despite the high consumption of blueberries, information about its effects on brain plasticity and function under conditions of brain trauma is limited. The efficacy of dietary blueberry (BB) supplementation to mitigate the effects of TBI on plasticity markers and associated behavioral function in a rodent model of concussive injury are assessed.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Rats were maintained on a diet supplemented with blueberry (BB, 5% w/w) for 2 weeks after TBI. It is found that BB supplementation mitigated a loss of spatial learning and memory performance after TBI, and reduced the effects of TBI on anxiety-like behavior. BB supplementation prevents a reduction of molecules associated with the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) system action on learning and memory such as cyclic-AMP response element binding factor (CREB), calcium/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII). In addition, BB supplementation reverses an increase of the lipid peroxidation byproduct 4-hydroxy-nonenal (4-HNE) after TBI. Importantly, synaptic and neuronal signaling regulators change in proportion with the memory performance, suggesting an association between plasticity markers and behavior.

CONCLUSION

Data herein indicate that BB supplementation has a beneficial effect in mitigating the acute aspects of the TBI pathology.

N-of-1 Clinical Trials in Nutritional Interventions Directed at Improving Cognitive Function

Longer life expectancy has led to an increase in the prevalence of age-related cognitive decline and dementia worldwide. Due to the current lack of effective treatment for these conditions, preventive strategies represent a research priority. A large body of evidence suggests that nutrition is involved in the pathogenesis of age-related cognitive decline, but also that it may play a critical role in slowing down its progression. At a population level, healthy dietary patterns interventions, such as the Mediterranean and the MIND diets, have been associated with improved cognitive performance and a decreased risk of neurodegenerative disease development. In the era of evidence-based medicine and patient-centered healthcare, personalized nutritional recommendations would offer a considerable opportunity in preventing cognitive decline progression. N-of-1 clinical trials have emerged as a fundamental design in evidence-based medicine. They consider each individual as the only unit of observation and intervention. The aggregation of series of N-of-1 clinical trials also enables population-level conclusions. This review provides a general view of the current scientific evidence regarding nutrition and cognitive decline, and critically states its limitations when translating results into the clinical practice. Furthermore, we suggest methodological strategies to develop N-of-1 clinical trials focused on nutrition and cognition in an older population. Finally, we evaluate the potential challenges that researchers may face when performing studies in precision nutrition and cognition.

Protective Effects of Foods Containing Flavonoids on Age-Related Cognitive Decline

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Evidence suggests that flavonoids, polyphenolic compounds found in many plant-derived foods, such as berries, may allay cognitive impairment. We review recent research exploring the protective effects of flavonoids on age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disorders in humans and animals. We also address the mechanisms by which flavonoids may exert their effects and promising avenues of future research.

RECENT FINDINGS

Flavonoids have been found to decrease neuroinflammation, reduce oxidative stress, and mediate neuroplasticity in animal models of neurodegeneration and aging. Injecting flavonoids encased in metal nanoparticles may further enhance the efficacy of flavonoids. Animal studies also demonstrate that flavonoid supplementation may alleviate neurodegenerative cognitive and memory impairments. Limited human studies, however, demonstrate the need for further clinical research investigating flavonoids. Flavonoid supplementation, as well as dietary modification to include whole foods high in flavonoids, may provide therapeutic potential for aging individuals experiencing cognitive deficits resulting from neurodegeneration.

Purple sweet potato color protects against high-fat diet-induced cognitive deficits through AMPK-mediated autophagy in mouse hippocampus

Prevention of obesity-induced cognitive decline is an important public health goal. Purple sweet potato color (PSPC), a class of naturally occurring anthocyanins, has beneficial potentials including antioxidant and neuroprotective activity. Evidence shows that anthocyanins can activate AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), a critical mediator of autophagy induction. This study investigated whether PSPC could improve cognitive function through regulating AMPK/autophagy signaling in HFD-fed obese mice. Our results showed that PSPC significantly ameliorated obesity, peripheral insulin resistance and memory impairment in HFD-fed mice. Moreover, enhanced autophagy was observed, along with the decreased levels of protein carbonyls, malondialdehyde and reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the hippocampus of HFD-fed mice due to PSPC administration. PSPC also promoted hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression and neuron survival in HFD-fed mouse. These improvements were mediated, at least in part, by the activation of AMPK, which was confirmed by metformin treatment. It is concluded that PSPC has great potential to improve cognitive function in HFD-fed mice via AMPK activation that restores autophagy and protects against hippocampal apoptosis.

Molecular Mechanism and Health Role of Functional Ingredients in Blueberry for Chronic Disease in Human Beings

Functional ingredients in blueberry have the best health benefits. To obtain a better understanding of the health role of blueberry in chronic disease, we conducted systematic preventive strategies for functional ingredients in blueberry, based on comprehensive databases, especially PubMed, ISI Web of Science, and CNKI for the period 2008⁻2018. Blueberry is rich in flavonoids (mainly anthocyanidins), polyphenols (procyanidin), phenolic acids, pyruvic acid, chlorogenic acid, and others, which have anticancer, anti-obesity, prevent degenerative diseases, anti-inflammation, protective properties for vision and liver, prevent heart diseases, antidiabetes, improve brain function, protective lung properties, strong bones, enhance immunity, prevent cardiovascular diseases, and improve cognitive decline. The anthocyanins and polyphenols in blueberry are major functional ingredients for preventive chronic disease. These results support findings that blueberry may be one of the best functional fruits, and further reveals the mechanisms of anthocyanins and polyphenols in the health role of blueberry for chronic disease. This paper may be used as scientific evidence for developing functional foods, nutraceuticals, and novel drugs of blueberry for preventive chronic diseases.

The effect of cognitive demand on performance of an executive function task following wild blueberry supplementation in 7 to 10 years old children

The cognitive benefits of acute flavonoid interventions have been well documented, however, research to date has found that, depending on developmental stage, these benefits manifest themselves in different cognitive domains. It is argued that the lack of global cognitive effects following flavonoid intervention may be a result of insufficient task sensitivity for those domains where no benefits are found. In children, executive function is a cognitive domain which has shown little apparent benefit following flavonoid intervention. Here, we describe a Modified Attention Network Task (MANT) designed to vary levels of cognitive demand across trials in order to investigate whether flavonoid related benefits can be shown for executive function when task sensitivity is carefully manipulated. Twenty-one children were recruited to a double blind cross-over study consuming 30 g freeze dried blueberry powder (WBB) or placebo before being tested at 3 hours. Performance in the WBB condition was found to be significantly faster in comparison to placebo particularly on more cognitively demanding incongruent and high load trials. Trials in which a visual cue alerted participants to the imminent appearance of the target also showed better performance following WBB administration. We conclude that WBB administration can enhance executive function during demanding elements of a task, but that the complexity and demand of the task as a whole may be equally important to performance.