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Samrani G, Lundquist A, Pudas S. Healthy Middle-Aged Adults Have Preserved Mnemonic Discrimination and Integration, While Showing No Detectable Memory Benefits. Front Psychol 2022; 12:797387. [PMID: 35140661 PMCID: PMC8819667 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.797387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2021] [Accepted: 12/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Declarative memory abilities change across adulthood. Semantic memory and autobiographic episodic knowledge can remain stable or even increase from mid- to late adulthood, while episodic memory abilities decline in later adulthood. Although it is well known that prior knowledge influences new learning, it is unclear whether the experiential growth of knowledge and memory traces across the lifespan may drive favorable adaptations in some basic memory processes. We hypothesized that an increased reliance on memory integration may be an adaptive mechanism to handle increased interference from accumulating memory traces and knowledge across adulthood. In turn, this may confer an improved ability for integration, observable in middle-age, before the onset of major aging-related declines. We further tested whether the hypothesized increase would be associated with previously observed reductions in memory discrimination performance in midlife. Data from a sample of healthy middle-aged (40-50 years, n = 40) and younger adults (20-28 years, n = 41) did not support the hypothesis of improved integration, as assessed by an associative inference paradigm. Instead, age-equivalent performance on both integration and discrimination measures were observed [Bayes factors (BFs)10 = 0.19-0.25], along with expected higher verbal knowledge and slower perceptual speed for middle-aged [(BFs)10 = 8.52-73.52]. The results contribute to an increased understanding of memory processing in midlife, an understudied portion of the lifespan, and suggest that two core episodic memory processes, integration and discrimination, can be maintained in healthy middle-aged adults.
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Affiliation(s)
- George Samrani
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Umeå center for Functional Brain Imaging, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Anders Lundquist
- Umeå center for Functional Brain Imaging, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Department of Statistics, USBE, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Sara Pudas
- Department of Integrative Medical Biology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
- Umeå center for Functional Brain Imaging, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
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Impact of Tea and Coffee Consumption on Cognitive Performance: An fNIRS and EDA Study. APPLIED SCIENCES-BASEL 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/app10072390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Coffee and tea are two of the most popular beverages in the world and have been consumed for more than a thousand years. They have become an integral part of the day for many consumers and may aid not only increased social interactions but also productivity. However, there is no conclusive evidence of their comparative effect on cognitive ability. This study investigated the impact of tea and coffee products on cognitive performance in typical office work-related tasks using brain, body, and behavioral measures. In a controlled multi-day study, we explored the effects of both traditional and cognition-enhancing hot beverages through task performance and self-reported measures. A total of 120 participants completed three work-related tasks from different cognitive domains and consumed either a traditional or cognition-enhancing hot beverage. During the study, we measured brain activity in the prefrontal cortex using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) as well as arousal from skin conductance through electrodermal activity (EDA) while participants completed cognitive tasks and consumed the beverages. Neural efficiency was used to evaluate cognitive performance in the tasks. Neural efficiency was calculated from a composite score of behavioral efficiency and cognitive effort, and emotional arousal was estimated from EDA activity. Results indicated that for different cognitive domains, the enhanced hot beverages showed improved neural efficiency over that of a traditional hot beverage. This is the first study to assess the impact of both traditional and cognition-enhancing drinks using a multimodal approach for workplace-related assignments.
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Davis MP, Behm B. Ginseng: A Qualitative Review of Benefits for Palliative Clinicians. Am J Hosp Palliat Care 2019; 36:630-659. [PMID: 30686023 DOI: 10.1177/1049909118822704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Ginseng has been used for centuries to treat various diseases and has been commercially developed and cultivated in the past 300 years. Ginseng products may be fresh, dried (white), or dried and steamed (red). Extracts may be made using water or alcohol. There are over 50 different ginsenosides identified by chromatography. We did an informal systematic qualitative review that centered on fatigue, cancer, dementia, respiratory diseases, and heart failure, and we review 113 studies in 6 tables. There are multiple potential benefits to ginseng in cancer. Ginseng, in certain circumstances, has been shown to improve dementia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and heart failure through randomized trials. Most trials had biases or unknown biases and so most evidence is of low quality. We review the gaps in the evidence and make some recommendations regarding future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mellar P Davis
- 1 Palliative Care Department, Knapper Cancer Center, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
| | - Bertrand Behm
- 1 Palliative Care Department, Knapper Cancer Center, Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA, USA
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Lho SK, Kim TH, Kwak KP, Kim K, Kim BJ, Kim SG, Kim JL, Kim TH, Moon SW, Park JY, Park JH, Byun S, Suh SW, Seo JY, So Y, Ryu SH, Youn JC, Lee KH, Lee DY, Lee DW, Lee SB, Lee JJ, Lee JR, Jeong H, Jeong HG, Jhoo JH, Han K, Hong JW, Han JW, Kim KW. Effects of lifetime cumulative ginseng intake on cognitive function in late life. ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH & THERAPY 2018; 10:50. [PMID: 29793529 PMCID: PMC5968575 DOI: 10.1186/s13195-018-0380-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/01/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the effects of lifetime cumulative ginseng intake on cognitive function in a community-dwelling population-based prospective cohort of Korean elders. METHODS Community-dwelling elders (N = 6422; mean age = 70.2 ± 6.9 years, education = 8.0 ± 5.3 years, female = 56.8%) from the Korean Longitudinal Study on Cognitive Aging and Dementia were included. Among them, 3918 participants (61.0%) completed the 2-year and 4-year follow-up evaluations. Subjects were categorized according to cumulative ginseng intake at baseline evaluation; no use group, low use (< 5 years) group, and high use (≥ 5 years) group. One-way analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) was conducted to compare the impact of cumulative ginseng intake on baseline Consortium to Establish a Registry for Alzheimer's Disease Assessment Packet neuropsychological battery total score (CERAD total score) and Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score among the three groups while adjusting for potential covariates. A repeated-measures ANCOVA was performed to investigate the impacts on the changes in CERAD total scores and MMSE scores during the 4 years of follow-up. RESULTS The high use group showed higher CERAD total scores compared to the no use group after controlling for age, sex, education years, socioeconomic status, smoking, alcohol intake, presence of hypertension, stroke history, Geriatric Depression Scale, Cumulative Illness Rating Scale, and presence of the APOE e4 allele (F(2, 4762) = 3.978, p = 0.019). The changes of CERAD total score for 2 or 4 years of follow-up did not differ according to the use of ginseng. CONCLUSIONS Cumulative ginseng use for longer than 5 years may be beneficial to cognitive function in late life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Kyungjin Lho
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Tae Hui Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Yonsei University Wonju Severance Christian Hospital, Wonju, Gangwon-do, Korea
| | - Kyung Phil Kwak
- Department of Psychiatry, Dongguk University Gyeongju Hospital, Gyeongju, Korea
| | - Kayoung Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, National Center for Mental Health, Seoul, Korea
| | - Bong Jo Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, Gyeongsang National University School of Medicine, Jinju, Korea
| | - Shin Gyeom Kim
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital, Bucheon-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
| | - Jeong Lan Kim
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Chungnam National University, Daejeon, Korea
| | - Tae Hyun Kim
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Seok Woo Moon
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Konkuk University Chungju Hospital, Chungju, Korea
| | - Jae Young Park
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Joon Hyuk Park
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Jeju National University Hospital, Jeju, Korea
| | - Seonjeong Byun
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Seung Wan Suh
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Ji Young Seo
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Changwon Gyeongsang National University Hospital, Jinju, Korea
| | - Yoonseop So
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Seung-Ho Ryu
- Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, Konkuk University, Konkuk University Medical Center, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Chul Youn
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kyunggi Provincial Hospital for the Elderly, Yongin, Korea
| | - Kyoung Hwan Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Bongseng Memorial Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Dong Young Lee
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.,Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Woo Lee
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seok Bum Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Dankook University Hospital, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea
| | - Jung Jae Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, Dankook University Hospital, Cheonan, Chungcheongnam-do, Korea
| | - Ju Ri Lee
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Hyeon Jeong
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Hyun-Ghang Jeong
- Department of Psychiatry, Korea University Guro Hospital, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jin Hyeong Jhoo
- Department of Psychiatry, Kangwon National University, School of Medicine, Chuncheon, Korea
| | - Kyuhee Han
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Jong Woo Hong
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea
| | - Ji Won Han
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea.
| | - Ki Woong Kim
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 166 Gumiro, Bundanggu, Seongnamsi, Gyeonggido, 463-707, Korea. .,Department of Psychiatry, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea. .,Department of Brain and Cognitive Science, Seoul National University College of Natural Sciences, Gwanak-gu, Seoul, Korea.
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Zuo W, Yan F, Zhang B, Li J, Mei D. Advances in the Studies of Ginkgo Biloba Leaves Extract on Aging-Related Diseases. Aging Dis 2017; 8:812-826. [PMID: 29344418 PMCID: PMC5758353 DOI: 10.14336/ad.2017.0615] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The prevalence of degenerative disorders in public health has promoted in-depth investigations of the underlying pathogenesis and the development of new treatment drugs. Ginkgo biloba leaves extract (EGb) is obtained from Ginkgo biloba leaves and has been used for thousands of years. In recent decades, both basic and clinical studies have established the effects of EGb. It is widely used in various degenerative diseases such as cerebrovascular disease, Alzheimer's disease, macroangiopathy and more. Here, we reviewed several pharmacological mechanisms of EGb, including its antioxidant properties, prevention of mitochondrial dysfunctions, and effect on apoptosis. We also described some clinical applications of EGb, such as its effect on neuro and cardiovascular protection, and anticancer properties. The above biological functions of EGb are mainly focused on aging-related disorders, but its effect on other diseases remains unclear. Thus, through this review, we aim to encourage further studies on EGb and discover more potential applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zuo
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Feng Yan
- Cerebrovascular Diseases Research Institute, Xuanwu Hospital of Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
- Department of Neurobiology, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Bo Zhang
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Jiantao Li
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Dan Mei
- Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
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Beck SM, Ruge H, Schindler C, Burkart M, Miller R, Kirschbaum C, Goschke T. Effects of Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® on cognitive control functions, mental activity of the prefrontal cortex and stress reactivity in elderly adults with subjective memory impairment - a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. Hum Psychopharmacol 2016; 31:227-42. [PMID: 27147264 PMCID: PMC5084772 DOI: 10.1002/hup.2534] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2015] [Revised: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/10/2016] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Cognitive control as well as stress reactivity is assumed to depend on prefrontal dopamine and decline with age. Because Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761 increases prefrontal dopamine in animals, we assessed its effects on cognitive functions related to prefrontal dopamine. METHODS Effects of 240-mg EGb761 daily on task-set-switching, response-inhibition, delayed response, prospective-memory, task-related fMRI-BOLD-signals and the Trier Social Stress-Test were explored in a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot-trial in 61 elderly volunteers with subjective memory impairment. RESULTS Baseline-FMRI-data showed BOLD-responses in regions commonly activated by the specific tasks. Task-switch-costs decreased with EGb761 compared to placebo (ANOVA-interaction: Group × Time × Switch-Costs p = 0.018, multiple tests uncorrected), indicating improved cognitive flexibility. Go-NoGo-task reaction-times corrected for error-rates indicated a trend for improved response inhibition. No treatment effects were found for the delayed response and prospective-memory tasks and fMRI-data. A non-significant trend indicated a potentially accelerated endocrine stress-recovery. EGb761 was safe and well tolerated. CONCLUSION We observed indications for improved cognitive flexibility without changes in brain activation, suggesting increased processing efficiency with EGb761. Together with a trend for improved response inhibition results are compatible with mild enhancement of prefrontal dopamine. These conclusions on potential beneficial effect of EGb761 on prefrontal dopaminergic functions should be confirmed by direct measurements. © 2016 The Authors. Human Psychopharmacology: Clinical and Experimental published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie M. Beck
- Department of PsychologyTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany,Neuroimaging CentreTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Hannes Ruge
- Department of PsychologyTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany,Neuroimaging CentreTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | - Christoph Schindler
- Institute for Clinical Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine Carl Gustav CarusTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany,Clinical Research Center Hannover & Institute for Clinical PharmacologyHannover Medical SchoolHannoverGermany
| | | | - Robert Miller
- Department of PsychologyTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
| | | | - Thomas Goschke
- Department of PsychologyTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany,Neuroimaging CentreTechnische Universität DresdenDresdenGermany
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Protection Efficacy of the Extract of Ginkgo biloba against the Learning and Memory Damage of Rats under Repeated High Sustained +Gz Exposure. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2016; 2016:6320586. [PMID: 27069491 PMCID: PMC4812286 DOI: 10.1155/2016/6320586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2015] [Revised: 02/15/2016] [Accepted: 02/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
Repeated high sustained positive Gz (+Gz) exposures are known for the harmful pathophysiological impact on the brain of rats, which is reflected as the interruption of normal performance of learning and memory. Interestingly, extract of Ginkgo biloba (EGb) has been reported to have neuroprotective effects and cognition-enhancing effects. In this study, we are interested in evaluating the protective effects of EGb toward the learning and memory abilities. Morris Water Maze Test (MWM) was used to evaluate the cognitive function, and the physiological status of the key components in central cholinergic system was also investigated. Our animal behavioral tests indicated that EGb can release the learning and memory impairment caused by repeated high sustained +Gz. Administration of EGb to rats can diminish some of the harmful physiological effects caused by repeated +Gz exposures. Moreover, EGb administration can increase the biological activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) but reduce the production of malondialdehyde (MDA). Taken together, our study showed that EGb can ameliorate the impairment of learning and memory abilities of rats induced by repeated high sustained +Gz exposure; the underlying mechanisms appeared to be related to the signal regulation on the cholinergic system and antioxidant enzymes system.
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Ma L, Wang S, Tai F, Yuan G, Wu R, Liu X, Wei B, Yang X. Effects of bilobalide on anxiety, spatial learning, memory and levels of hippocampal glucocorticoid receptors in male Kunming mice. PHYTOMEDICINE : INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHYTOTHERAPY AND PHYTOPHARMACOLOGY 2012; 20:89-96. [PMID: 23083816 DOI: 10.1016/j.phymed.2012.09.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2012] [Revised: 08/03/2012] [Accepted: 09/15/2012] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
With various constituents in ginkgo biloba extract, the detailed internal mechanism underlying a reduction in anxiety and improvements to learning and memory from GBE is not well understood. The present study investigated whether bilobalide, an important constituent in GBE, could affect anxiety, spatial learning and memory in male mice and whether hippocampal glucocorticoid receptor expression is associated with alteration in these behaviors. Mice were treated orally either with sesame seed oil or one of three dosages of bilobalide (2.5, 5.0 and 10.0 mg/kg) daily until testing. A series of behavioral tests showed that repeated bilobalide treatment decreased levels of anxiety-like behavior and increased locomotor activity in open field and elevated plus maze tests. Treatment with bilobalide also shortened the time taken to find the platform in a Morris water-maze test. Mice exposed to bilobalide showed higher and dose-dependent levels of glucocorticoid receptor expression in the hippocampus. These results suggest that bilobalide reduces anxiety levels and enhances spatial learning and memory, possibly through an increase in hippocampal glucocorticoid receptor expression. This finding sheds light on the mechanisms underlying the effect of ginkgo biloba extract on behavior and also provides an important candidate drug in treatment of anxiety, depression, hypomnesia and amnesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leige Ma
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, China
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Shin TJ, Kim HJ, Kwon BJ, Choi SH, Kim HB, Hwang SH, Lee BH, Lee SM, Zukin RS, Park JH, Kim HC, Rhim H, Lee JH, Nah SY. Gintonin, a ginseng-derived novel ingredient, evokes long-term potentiation through N-methyl-D-aspartic acid receptor activation: involvement of LPA receptors. Mol Cells 2012; 34:563-72. [PMID: 23161173 PMCID: PMC3887827 DOI: 10.1007/s10059-012-0254-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2012] [Revised: 10/24/2012] [Accepted: 10/25/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Ginseng has been shown to have memory-improving effects in human. However, little is known about the active components and the molecular mechanisms underlying its effects. Recently, we isolated novel lysophosphatidic acids (LPAs)-ginseng protein complex derived from ginseng, gintonin. Gintonin activates G protein-coupled LPA receptors with high affinity. Gintonin activated Ca²⁺-activated Clchannels in Xenopus oocytes through the activation of endogenous LPA receptor. In the present study, we investigated whether the activation of LPA receptor by gintonin is coupled to the regulation of N-methyl-D-aspartic acid (NMDA) receptor channel activity in Xenopus oocytes expressing rat NMDA receptors. The NMDA receptor-mediated ion current (I ( NMDA )) was measured using the two-electrode voltage-clamp technique. In oocytes injected with cRNAs encoding NMDA receptor subunits, gintonin enhanced I ( NMDA ) in a concentration-dependent manner. Gintonin-mediated I ( NMDA ) enhancement was blocked by Ki16425, an LPA1/3 receptor antagonist. Gintonin action was blocked by a PLC inhibitor, IP₃ receptor antagonist, Ca²⁺ chelator, and a tyrosine kinase inhibitor. The site-directed mutation of Ser1308 of the NMDA receptor, which is phosphorylated by protein kinase C (PKC), to an Ala residue, or co-expression of receptor protein tyrosine phosphatase with the NMDA receptor attenuated gintonin action. Moreover, gintonin treatment elicited a transient elevation of [Ca²⁺](i) in cultured hippocampal neurons and elevated longterm potentiation (LTP) in both concentration-dependent manners in rat hippocampal slices. Gintonin-mediated LTP induction was abolished by Ki16425. These results indicate that gintonin-mediated I ( NMDA ) potentiation and LTP induction in the hippocampus via the activation of LPA receptor might be responsible for ginseng-mediated improvement of memory-related brain functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tae-Joon Shin
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Science Research Institute, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Hyeon-Joong Kim
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Science Research Institute, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Byeong-Jae Kwon
- Graduate School of East-West Medical Science and Research Institute of Medical Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701,
Korea
| | - Sun-Hye Choi
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Science Research Institute, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Hyun-Bum Kim
- Graduate School of East-West Medical Science and Research Institute of Medical Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701,
Korea
| | - Sung-Hee Hwang
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Science Research Institute, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Byung-Hwan Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Science Research Institute, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - Sang-Mok Lee
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Science Research Institute, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
| | - R. Suzanne Zukin
- Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461,
USA
| | - Ji-Ho Park
- Graduate School of East-West Medical Science and Research Institute of Medical Nutrition, Kyung Hee University, Yongin 446-701,
Korea
| | - Hyoung-Chun Kim
- Neuropsychopharmacology and Toxicology Program, College of Pharmacy, Kangwon National University, Chunchon 200-701,
Korea
| | - Hyewhon Rhim
- Life Science Division, Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Seoul 130-701,
Korea
| | - Joon-Hee Lee
- Department of Physical Therapy, Sehan University, Yeongam 526-702,
Korea
| | - Seung-Yeol Nah
- Department of Physiology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Veterinary Science Research Institute, and Bio/Molecular Informatics Center, Konkuk University, Seoul 143-701,
Korea
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Fransen HP, Pelgrom SM, Stewart-Knox B, de Kaste D, Verhagen H. Assessment of health claims, content, and safety of herbal supplements containing Ginkgo biloba. Food Nutr Res 2010; 54:5221. [PMID: 20927202 PMCID: PMC2950792 DOI: 10.3402/fnr.v54i0.5221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2010] [Revised: 08/27/2010] [Accepted: 09/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND European Regulation 1924/2006 states that all health claims made on foods need to be substantiated scientifically. OBJECTIVE To apply the PASSCLAIM criteria for the scientific substantiation of health claims on foods to herbal supplements containing Ginkgo biloba. Evaluation of three selected claimed health effects for G. biloba (improvement of blood circulation, improvement of symptoms of old age, and improvement of memory) was achieved through review of publicly available scientific data. A total of 35 human intervention studies were evaluated. Commercially available products claimed to contain mainly G. biloba (N=29) were randomly sampled in the Netherlands and analyzed for their content on ginkgo extract. Also, a toxicological risk assessment was performed. RESULTS The three selected health claims investigated could not be substantiated. This was mainly because of a lack of data from studies in healthy volunteers. In most studies results performed with a 24% standardized G. biloba extract were described. However, our chemical analysis showed that 25 of the 29 sampled products did not contain the required minimum 24% standardized extract. Moreover, in most preparations the content of substances typical for G. biloba did not conform to what was declared on the label. Since toxicity data for G. biloba are very limited, a safety limit could not be established. CONCLUSIONS Evidence is lacking for three health claims of herbal products with G. biloba. Neither safety nor efficacy can be guaranteed at the recommended daily dose. The multidisciplinary approach described in this paper provides good insight into issues that are relevant for the evaluation of health claims for herbal food supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heidi P. Fransen
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Sylvia M.G.J. Pelgrom
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Barbara Stewart-Knox
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland
| | - Dries de Kaste
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Verhagen
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
- Northern Ireland Centre for Food and Health (NICHE), University of Ulster, Coleraine, Northern Ireland
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Jäger AK, Saaby L, Kudsk DS, Witt KC, Mølgaard P. Short communication: Influence of pasteurization on the active compounds in medicinal plants to be used in dairy products. J Dairy Sci 2010; 93:2351-3. [PMID: 20494140 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2009-2910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2009] [Accepted: 03/15/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Interest from the dairy industry in adding herbal drugs to milk and yogurt products raises the question of whether these plant materials can be pasteurized. Root material of Rhodiola rosea, Eleutherococcus senticosus, and Panax ginseng, all plants with adaptogenic activities, was pasteurized. The content of active compounds in the root material before and after pasteurization was quantified by HPLC analysis. The results show that the eleutherosides in E. senticosus, and to an extent the ginsenosides from P. ginseng, could withstand pasteurization, whereas salidroside and rosavin from R. rosea did not survive pasteurization. Thus, R. rosea is not suitable for products requiring pasteurization.
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Affiliation(s)
- A K Jäger
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 2 Universitetsparken, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark.
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Jia L, Zhao Y, Liang XJ. Current evaluation of the millennium phytomedicine- ginseng (II): Collected chemical entities, modern pharmacology, and clinical applications emanated from traditional Chinese medicine. Curr Med Chem 2010; 16:2924-42. [PMID: 19689273 DOI: 10.2174/092986709788803204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 193] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This review, a sequel to part 1 in the series, collects about 107 chemical entities separated from the roots, leaves and flower buds of Panax ginseng, quinquefolius and notoginseng, and categorizes these entities into about 18 groups based on their structural similarity. The bioactivities of these chemical entities are described. The 'Yin and Yang' theory and the fundamentals of the 'five elements' applied to the traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are concisely introduced to help readers understand how ginseng balances the dynamic equilibrium of human physiological processes from the TCM perspectives. This paper concerns the observation and experimental investigation of biological activities of ginseng used in the TCM of past and present cultures. The current biological findings of ginseng and its medical applications are narrated and critically discussed, including 1) its antihyperglycemic effect that may benefit type II diabetics; in vitro and in vivo studies demonstrated protection of ginseng on beta-cells and obese diabetic mouse models. The related clinical trial results are stated. 2) its aphrodisiac effect and cardiovascular effect that partially attribute to ginseng's bioactivity on nitric oxide (NO); 3) its cognitive effect and neuropharmacological effect that are intensively tested in various rat models using purified ginsenosides and show a hope to treat Parkinson's disease (PD); 4) its uses as an adjuvant or immunotherapeutic agent to enhance immune activity, appetite and life quality of cancer patients during their chemotherapy and radiation. Although the apoptotic effect of ginsenosides, especially Rh2, Rg3 and Compound K, on various tumor cells has been shown via different pathways, their clinical effectiveness remains to be tested. This paper also updates the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic and immune-stimulatory activities of ginseng, its ingredients and commercial products, as well as common side effects of ginseng mainly due to its overdose, and its pharmacokinetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee Jia
- Developmental Therapeutics Program, National Cancer Institute/ NIH, Rockville, MD 20852, USA.
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Yang JH, Han SJ, Ryu JH, Jang IS, Kim DH. Ginsenoside Rh2 Ameliorates Scopolamine-Induced Learning Deficit in Mice. Biol Pharm Bull 2009; 32:1710-5. [DOI: 10.1248/bpb.32.1710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Hwa Yang
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences and Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Kyung Hee University
| | - Sang-Jun Han
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences and Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Kyung Hee University
| | - Jong Hoon Ryu
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences and Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Kyung Hee University
| | - Il-Sung Jang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Dentistry, Kyungpook National University
| | - Dong-Hyun Kim
- Department of Life and Nanopharmaceutical Sciences and Department of Pharmaceutical Science, Kyung Hee University
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KIM J, CHUNG S, PARK S, PARK J, BYUN S, HWANG M, OH D, CHOI H, KIM M, BU Y. Enhancing effect of HT008-1 on cognitive function and quality of life in cognitively declined healthy adults: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, trial. Pharmacol Biochem Behav 2008; 90:517-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pbb.2008.03.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2007] [Revised: 03/15/2008] [Accepted: 03/30/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Carlson JJ, Farquhar JW, DiNucci E, Ausserer L, Zehnder J, Miller D, Berra K, Hagerty L, Haskell WL. Safety and Efficacy of a Ginkgo Biloba–Containing Dietary Supplement on Cognitive Function, Quality of Life, and Platelet Function in Healthy, Cognitively Intact Older Adults. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007; 107:422-32. [PMID: 17324660 DOI: 10.1016/j.jada.2006.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2005] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine if a ginkgo biloba-containing supplement improves cognitive function and quality of life, alters primary hemostasis, and is safe in healthy, cognitively intact older adults. DESIGN Four-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled parallel design. SUBJECTS/SETTING Ninety men and women (age range 65 to 84 years) were recruited to a university clinic. Eligibility included those without dementia or depression, not taking psychoactive medications or medications or supplements that alter hemostasis. INTERVENTION Ninety subjects were randomly assigned to placebo or a ginkgo biloba-based supplement containing 160 mg ginkgo biloba, 68 mg gotu kola, and 180 mg decosahexaenoic acid per day for 4 months. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Assessments included: six standardized cognitive function tests, the SF-36 Quality of Life questionnaire, the Platelet Function Analyzer-100 (Dade Behring, Eschbom, Germany), and the monitoring of adverse events. STATISTICAL ANALYSES Baseline characteristics and study hypotheses were tested using analysis of covariance. Tests were two-tailed with a 0.05 significance level. RESULTS Seventy-eight subjects (87%) completed both baseline and 4-month testing (n=36 in placebo group, n=42 in ginkgo biloba group). At baseline, the participants' cognitive function was above average. One of six cognitive tests indicated significant protocol differences at 4 months (P=0.03), favoring the placebo. There were no significant differences in quality of life, platelet function, or adverse events. CONCLUSIONS These finding do not support the use of a ginkgo biloba-containing supplement for improving cognitive function or quality of life in cognitively intact, older, healthy adults. However, high baseline scores may have contributed to the null findings. The ginkgo biloba product seems safe and did not alter platelet function, though additional studies are needed to evaluate the interaction of varying doses of ginkgo biloba and ginkgo biloba-containing supplements with medications and supplements that alter hemostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Carlson
- Sport and Cardiovascular Nutrition Program, Department of Radiology, Michigan State University, College of Osteopathic Medicine, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA.
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Radad K, Gille G, Liu L, Rausch WD. Use of ginseng in medicine with emphasis on neurodegenerative disorders. J Pharmacol Sci 2006; 100:175-86. [PMID: 16518078 DOI: 10.1254/jphs.crj05010x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Ginseng, the root of Panax species, is a well-known herbal medicine. It has been used as a traditional medicine in China, Korea, and Japan for thousands of years and is now a popular and worldwide used natural medicine. The active ingredients of ginseng are ginsenosides which are also called ginseng saponins. Recently, there is increasing evidence in the literature on the pharmacological and physiological actions of ginseng. However, ginseng has been used primarily as a tonic to invigorate weak bodies and help the restoration of homeostasis. Current in vivo and in vitro studies have shown its beneficial effects in a wide range of pathological conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, immune deficiency, and hepatotoxicity. Moreover, recent research has suggested that some of ginseng's active ingredients also exert beneficial effects on aging, central nervous system (CNS) disorders, and neurodegenerative diseases. In general, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-apoptotic, and immune-stimulatory activities are mostly underlying the possible ginseng-mediated protective mechanisms. Next to animal studies, data from neural cell cultures contribute to the understanding of these mechanisms that involve decreasing nitric oxide (NO), scavenging of free radicals, and counteracting excitotoxicity. In this review, we focus on recently reported medicinal effects of ginseng and summarize the current knowledge of its effects on CNS disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaled Radad
- Department of Pathology and Clinical Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Assiut University, Egypt.
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Abstract
The climacteric syndrome involves a variety of symptoms such as profuse sweating, insomnia, memory loss, decreased sexual drives, joint aches, and anxiety. However, amongst these symptoms, hot flashes and sweats are generally considered the hallmark and result in the majority of the medical consultations for this condition. Hot flashes are known to respond readily to placebo, which alone decreases their frequency by 20-40%. In the ideal setting of clinical trials, with optimal patient selection and compliance, estrogen therapy reduces hot flashes by about 70-80%; this is twice as effective as placebo. However, estrogen is unable to be universally used, either because of contraindications or because of an unwillingness of women to take it. Furthermore, hot flashes may persist in spite of adequate estrogen replacement, and physicians are often faced with the dilemma of finding something to administer in place of, or in addition to, estrogen to improve symptoms. The most commonly used non-hormonal alternatives for climacteric symptoms are neurotransmitter modulators such as serotonin reuptake inhibitors and gabapentin. These are, at best, approximately half as effective as estrogen for the relief of menopausal symptoms, and are only marginally better than placebo.Complementary treatment, particularly over-the-counter phytotherapeutic extracts, are very popular and women often try a variety of such products before resorting to conventional medicine. Preparations containing isoflavones, such as soy extract and red clover or extracts from evening primrose or cimicifuga (black cohosh, Actaea racemosa, syn. Cimicifuga racemosa), in variable doses are very popular for the treatment of hot flashes. The scientific support for their efficacy certainly does not equal their popularity.Non-hormonal treatments for menopause are not as effective as estrogens in relieving hot flashes, but may have a role in therapy for women who have contraindications to gonadal steroid use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Albertazzi
- Centre for Metabolic Bone Disease, Hull Royal Infirmary, Hull, UK
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Reay JL, Kennedy DO, Scholey AB. Single doses of Panax ginseng (G115) reduce blood glucose levels and improve cognitive performance during sustained mental activity. J Psychopharmacol 2005; 19:357-65. [PMID: 15982990 DOI: 10.1177/0269881105053286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 104] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Single doses of the traditional herbal treatment Panax ginseng have recently been shown to elicit cognitive improvements in healthy young volunteers. The mechanisms by which ginseng improves cognitive performance are not known. However, they may be related to the glycaemic properties of some Panax species. Using a double-blind, placebo-controlled, balanced crossover design, 30 healthy young adults completed a 10 min test battery at baseline, and then six times in immediate succession commencing 60 min after the day's treatment (placebo, 200mg G115 or 400mg G115). The 10 min battery comprised a Serial Threes subtraction task (2 min); a Serial Sevens task (2 min); a Rapid Visual Information Processing task (5 min); then a 'mental fatigue' visual analogue scale. Blood glucose was measured prior to each day's treatment, and before, during and after the post-dose completions of the battery. Both the 200mg and 400mg treatments led to significant reductions in blood glucose levels at all three post-treatment measurements (p 0.005 in all cases). The most notable behavioural effects were associated with 200mg of ginseng and included significantly improved Serial Sevens subtraction task performance and significantly reduced subjective mental fatigue throughout all (with the exception of one time point in each case) of the post-dose completions of the 10 min battery (p 0.05). Overall these data suggest that Panax ginseng can improve performance and subjective feelings of mental fatigue during sustained mental activity. This effect may be related to the acute gluco-regulatory properties of the extract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon L Reay
- Human Cognitive Neuroscience Unit, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
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Elsabagh S, Hartley DE, Ali O, Williamson EM, File SE. Differential cognitive effects of Ginkgo biloba after acute and chronic treatment in healthy young volunteers. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2005; 179:437-46. [PMID: 15739076 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-005-2206-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2004] [Accepted: 07/30/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Acute doses of Ginkgo biloba have been shown to improve attention and memory in young, healthy participants, but there has been a lack of investigation into possible effects on executive function. In addition, only one study has investigated the effects of chronic treatment in young volunteers. OBJECTIVES This study was conducted to compare the effects of ginkgo after acute and chronic treatment on tests of attention, memory and executive function in healthy university students. METHODS Using a placebo-controlled double-blind design, in experiment 1, 52 students were randomly allocated to receive a single dose of ginkgo (120 mg, n=26) or placebo (n=26), and were tested 4 h later. In experiment 2, 40 students were randomly allocated to receive ginkgo (120 mg/day; n=20) or placebo (n=20) for a 6-week period and were tested at baseline and after 6 weeks of treatment. In both experiments, participants underwent tests of sustained attention, episodic and working memory, mental flexibility and planning, and completed mood rating scales. RESULTS The acute dose of ginkgo significantly improved performance on the sustained-attention task and pattern-recognition memory task; however, there were no effects on working memory, planning, mental flexibility or mood. After 6 weeks of treatment, there were no significant effects of ginkgo on mood or any of the cognitive tests. CONCLUSIONS In line with the literature, after acute administration ginkgo improved performance in tests of attention and memory. However, there were no effects after 6 weeks, suggesting that tolerance develops to the effects in young, healthy participants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Elsabagh
- Psychopharmacology Research Unit, Centre for Neuroscience, Hodgkin Building, King's College London, Guy's Campus, London, SE1 1UL, UK.
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Scholey A, Kennedy D, Wesnes K. The psychopharmacology of herbal extracts: issues and challenges. Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2005; 179:705-7; author reply 708-11. [PMID: 15657784 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-004-2062-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2004] [Accepted: 09/29/2004] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Elsabagh S, Hartley DE, File SE. Limited cognitive benefits in Stage +2 postmenopausal women after 6 weeks of treatment with Ginkgo biloba. J Psychopharmacol 2005; 19:173-81. [PMID: 15728439 DOI: 10.1177/0269881105049038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Gingko biloba has cognitive benefits both in populations suffering from dementia and after acute treatment in healthy volunteers, with some evidence indicating that those with poorer cognitive performance show greater benefit. We have previously found that 1 week of treatment with ginkgo improved attention, memory and mental flexibility in post-menopausal women, but the evidence for any beneficial effects of longer treatment is less well-established. The present study aimed to determine whether cognitive benefits, similar to those previously found after 1 week of treatment, would persist after 6 weeks of treatment, and whether those with poorer cognitive performance would benefit more. In a placebo-controlled, double-blind study, postmenopausal women (aged 51-67 years) were randomly allocated to receive a standardized extract of ginkgo (LI 1370, Lichtwer Pharma, Marlow, UK) (one capsule/day of 120 mg, n = 45) or matching placebo (n = 42) for 6 weeks. According to an established reproductive staging system, subjects were divided into those in the early (Stage +1; mean age 55 years) and late (Stage +2: mean age 61 years) stages of menopause. At baseline and after 6 weeks of treatment, subjects completed tests of mental flexibility, planning, memory and sustained attention, and ratings of mood, sleepiness, bodily and menopausal symptoms. The only significant effects of ginkgo were in the test of mental flexibility, in which there were significant menopausal stage-ginkgo interactions. This was because subjects in Stage +2 required fewer trials to complete the task and made fewer errors after ginkgo treatment, whereas those in Stage +1 showed no benefits. Subjects in Stage +2 had poorer performance at baseline compared to those in Stage +1 both in this task and the test of planning ability. The beneficial effects of ginkgo were limited to the test of mental flexibility and to those with poorer performance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Elsabagh
- Psychopharmacology Research Unit, Centre for Neuroscience, King's College London, London and Centre for Pharmacognosy and Phytotherapy, The School of Pharmacy, London, UK.
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