Neuroprotective Effects of β-Myrcene Following Global Cerebral Ischemia/Reperfusion-Mediated Oxidative and Neuronal Damage in a C57BL/J6 Mouse

Oral CBD-rich hemp extract modulates sterile inflammation in female and male rats

Introduction: Cannabidiol (CBD) extract from the cannabis plant has biomedical and nutraceutical potential. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD products produce few psychoactive effects and pose little risk for abuse. There is emerging preclinical and clinical evidence that CBD is stress modulatory and may have anti-inflammatory properties. People across the United States legally ingest CBD-rich hemp extracts to manage mental and physical health problems, including stress and inflammation. Preclinical studies have revealed potential mechanisms for these effects; however, the impact of this prior work is diminished because many studies: 1) tested synthetic CBD rather than CBD-rich hemp extracts containing terpenes and/or other cannabinoids thought to enhance therapeutic benefits; 2) administered CBD via injection into the peritoneal cavity or the brain instead of oral ingestion; and 3) failed to examine potential sex differences. To address these gaps in the literature, the following study tested the hypothesis that the voluntary oral ingestion of CBD-rich hemp extract will attenuate the impact of stressor exposure on plasma and tissue inflammatory and stress proteins in females and males. Methods: Adult male and female Sprague Dawley rats (10-15/group) were randomly assigned to be given cereal coated with either vehicle (coconut oil) or CBD-rich hemp extract (L-M0717, CBDrx/Functional Remedies, 20.0 mg/kg). After 7 days, rats were exposed to a well-established acute model of stress (100, 1.5 mA, 5-s, intermittent tail shocks, 90 min total duration) or remained in home cages as non-stressed controls. Results: Stressor exposure induced a robust stress response, i.e., increased plasma corticosterone and blood glucose, and decreased spleen weight (a surrogate measure of sympathetic nervous system activation). Overall, stress-induced increases in inflammatory and stress proteins were lower in females than males, and oral CBD-rich hemp extract constrained these responses in adipose tissue (AT) and mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN). Consistent with previous reports, females had higher levels of stress-evoked corticosterone compared to males, which may have contributed to the constrained inflammatory response measured in females. Discussion: Results from this study suggest that features of the acute stress response are impacted by oral ingestion of CBD-rich hemp extract in female and male rats, and the pattern of changes may be sex and tissue dependent.

Garcinia oligantha: A comprehensive overview of ethnomedicine, phytochemistry and pharmacology

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Garcinia oligantha Merr. is an ethnomedicine plant mainly distributed in Guangdong and Hainan, China. It has the effects of heat-clearing and detoxicating, which has been used by local ethnic minorities to treat a variety of diseases, including inflammation, internal heat, toothache and scald.

THE AIM OF THE REVIEW

This review summarizes and discusses the progress of the chemical compounds and biological activities of G. oligantha that have been studied in recent years to provide the direction for the prospective research and applications of G. oligantha.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The relevant literature about G. oligantha was accessible from ancient Chinese medical books and records, theses, as well as major scientific databases such as Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, SciFinder, Baidu Scholar and China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI).

RESULTS

To date, more than 150 chemical compounds were isolated from this plant, including xanthones, volatile oil, fatty acid, benzofurane derivative and biphenyl compounds. Xanthones are the main bioactive compounds that exhibit diverse biological effects, such as antitumor, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, neuroprotective, antimalarial and antibacterial effects, which are consistent with its traditional uses as a folk medicine. Modern pharmacological studies show that these compounds participate in a variety of signaling pathways underlying different pathophysiologies, making them a valuable medicinal resource.

CONCLUSION

G. oligantha is an ethnomedicine with a long history. However, due to regional and cultural constraints, the popularisation and use of ethnomedicine are still limited. Modern pharmacological and chemical research suggest that G. oligantha contains a variety of bioactive compounds and showed diverse biological functions, which is worthy of comprehensive and in-depth research. This review summarizes and discusses the recent progress in studies on G. oligantha, looking forward to promote further research and sustainable development of folk medicinal plants.

Health-Promoting Properties and Potential Application in the Food Industry of Citrus medica L. and Citrus × clementina Hort. Ex Tan. Essential Oils and Their Main Constituents

Citrus is an important genus in the Rutaceae family, with high medicinal and economic value, and includes important crops such as lemons, orange, grapefruits, limes, etc. The Citrus species is rich sources of carbohydrates, vitamins, dietary fibre, and phytochemicals, mainly including limonoids, flavonoids, terpenes, and carotenoids. Citrus essential oils (EOs) consist of several biologically active compounds mainly belonging to the monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes classes. These compounds have demonstrated several health-promoting properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Citrus EOs are obtained mainly from peels, but also from leaves and flowers, and are widely used as flavouring ingredients in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceutical products. This review focused on the composition and biological properties of the EOs of Citrus medica L. and Citrus clementina Hort. Ex Tan and their main constituents, limonene, γ-terpinene, myrcene, linalool, and sabinene. The potential applications in the food industry have been also described. All the articles available in English or with an abstract in English were extracted from different databases such as PubMed, SciFinder, Google Scholar, Web of Science, Scopus, and Science Direct.

Comparison of the Cannabinoid and Terpene Profiles in Commercial Cannabis from Natural and Artificial Cultivation

Interest in cultivating cannabis for medical and recreational purposes is increasing due to a dramatic shift in cannabis legislation worldwide. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the composition of secondary metabolites, cannabinoids, and terpenes grown in different environmental conditions is of primary importance for the medical and recreational use of cannabis. We compared the terpene and cannabinoid profiles using gas/liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry for commercial cannabis from genetically identical plants grown indoors using artificial light and artificially grown media or outdoors grown in living soil and natural sunlight. By analyzing the cannabinoids, we found significant variations in the metabolomic profile of cannabis for the different environments. Overall, for both cultivars, there were significantly greater oxidized and degraded cannabinoids in the indoor-grown samples. Moreover, the outdoor-grown samples had significantly more unusual cannabinoids, such as C4- and C6-THCA. There were also significant differences in the terpene profiles between indoor- and outdoor-grown cannabis. The outdoor samples had a greater preponderance of sesquiterpenes including β-caryophyllene, α-humulene, α-bergamotene, α-guaiene, and germacrene B relative to the indoor samples.

Myrcene Salvages Rotenone-Induced Loss of Dopaminergic Neurons by Inhibiting Oxidative Stress, Inflammation, Apoptosis, and Autophagy

Parkinson's disease (PD) is characterized by the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta, resulting in motor deficits. The exact etiology of PD is currently unknown; however, the pathological hallmarks of PD include excessive production of reactive oxygen species, enhanced neuroinflammation, and overproduction of α-synuclein. Under normal physiological conditions, aggregated α-synuclein is degraded via the autophagy lysosomal pathway. However, impairment of the autophagy lysosomal pathway results in α-synuclein accumulation, thereby facilitating the pathogenesis of PD. Current medications only manage the symptoms, but are unable to delay, prevent, or cure the disease. Collectively, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy play crucial roles in PD; therefore, there is an enormous interest in exploring novel bioactive agents of natural origin for their protective roles in PD. The present study evaluated the role of myrcene, a monoterpene, in preventing the loss of dopaminergic neurons in a rotenone (ROT)-induced rodent model of PD, and elucidated the underlying mechanisms. Myrcene was administered at a dose of 50 mg/kg, 30 min prior to the intraperitoneal injections of ROT (2.5 mg/kg). Administration of ROT caused a considerable loss of dopaminergic neurons, subsequent to a significant reduction in the antioxidant defense systems, increased lipid peroxidation, and activation of microglia and astrocytes, along with the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, IL-1β) and matrix metalloproteinase-9. Rotenone also resulted in impairment of the autophagy lysosomal pathway, as evidenced by increased expression of LC3, p62, and beclin-1 with decreased expression in the phosphorylation of mTOR protein. Collectively, these factors result in the loss of dopaminergic neurons. However, myrcene treatment has been observed to restore antioxidant defenses and attenuate the increase in concentrations of lipid peroxidation products, pro-inflammatory cytokines, diminished microglia, and astrocyte activation. Myrcene treatment also enhanced the phosphorylation of mTOR, reinstated neuronal homeostasis, restored autophagy-lysosomal degradation, and prevented the increased expression of α-synuclein following the rescue of dopaminergic neurons. Taken together, our study clearly revealed the mitigating effect of myrcene on dopaminergic neuronal loss, attributed to its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic properties, and favorable modulation of autophagic flux. This study suggests that myrcene may be a potential candidate for therapeutic benefits in PD.

Identification of bioactive compounds and cytogenotoxicity of the essential oil from the leaves of Croton heliotropiifolius Kunth

Croton heliotropiifolius Kunth, popularly known as "quince" and "velame," contains a high concentration of volatile oils in the leaves, and widely used in folk medicine as an antiseptic, analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic and local anesthetic. The objectives of this investigation were to (1) identify the phytochemical compounds and (2) assess the cytogenotoxicity of the essential oil extracted from the leaves of C. heliotropiifolius Kunth. The oil was extracted utilizing hydrodistillation and phytochemical profile determined using gas chromatography and mass spectrometry (GCMS). In the toxicogenetics analysis, Allium cepa roots were exposed to 1% dimethylsulfoxide or methylmethanesulfonate (MMS, 10 µg/ml) negative and positive controls, respectively, and to C. heliotropiifolius oil at 6 concentrations (0.32; 1.6; 8; 40; 200 or 1000 µg/ml). The phytochemical profile exhibited 40 chromatographic bands, and 33 compounds identified. α-pinene (16.7%) and 1,8-cineole (13.81%) were identified as the major compounds. Some of these identified secondary metabolites displayed biological and pharmacological activities previously reported including antiseptic, analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory as well insecticidal, antiviral, anti-fungal actions. In the A. cepa test, C. heliotropiifolius leaves oil induced cytotoxicity at concentrations of 0.32, 1.6 or 200 µg/ml and genotoxicity at 200 or 1000 µg/ml as evidenced by increased presence of micronuclei and significant chromosomal losses. Based upon our observations data demonstrated that the essential oil of C. heliotropiifolius leaves contain monoterpene hydrocarbons, and oxygenated monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes, and oxygenated sesquiterpenes which are associated with cytotoxic and genotoxic responses noted in on A. cepa cells.

Evaluating Cannabis sativa L.'s neuroprotection potential: From bench to bedside

BACKGROUND

Neurodegenerative diseases and dementia pose a global health challenge in an aging population, exemplified by the increasing incidence and prevalence of its most common form, Alzheimer's disease. Although several approved treatments exist for Alzheimer's disease, they only afford transient symptomatic improvements and are not considered disease-modifying. The psychoactive properties of Cannabis sativa L. have been recognized for thousands of years and now with burgeoning access to medicinal formulations globally, research has turned to re-evaluate cannabis and its myriad phytochemicals as a potential treatment and adjunctive agent for neurodegenerative diseases.

PURPOSE

This review evaluated the neuroprotective potential of C. sativa's active constituents for potential therapeutic use in dementia and Alzheimer's disease, based on published studies demonstrating efficacy in experimental preclinical settings associated with neurodegeneration.

STUDY DESIGN

Relevant information on the neuroprotective potential of the C. sativa's phytoconstituents in preclinical studies (in vitro, in vivo) were included. The collated information on C. sativa's component bioactivity was organized for therapeutic applications against neurodegenerative diseases.

METHODS

The therapeutic use of C. sativa related to Alzheimer's disease relative to known phytocannabinoids and other phytochemical constituents were derived from online databases, including PubMed, Elsevier, The Plant List (TPL, www.theplantlist.org), Science Direct, as well as relevant information on the known pharmacological actions of the listed phytochemicals.

RESULTS

Numerous C. sativa -prevalent phytochemicals were evidenced in the body of literature as having efficacy in the treatment of neurodegenerative conditions exemplified by Alzheimer's disease. Several phytocannabinoids, terpenes and select flavonoids demonstrated neuroprotection through a myriad of cellular and molecular pathways, including cannabinoid receptor-mediated, antioxidant and direct anti-aggregatory actions against the pathological toxic hallmark protein in Alzheimer's disease, amyloid β.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide strong evidence for a role of cannabis constituents, individually or in combination, as potential neuroprotectants timely to the emergent use of medicinal cannabis as a novel treatment for neurodegenerative diseases. Future randomized and controlled clinical studies are required to substantiate the bioactivities of phytocannabinoids and terpenes and their likely synergies.

Pinus halepensis Essential Oil Ameliorates Aβ1-42-Induced Brain Injury by Diminishing Anxiety, Oxidative Stress, and Neuroinflammation in Rats

The Pinus L. genus comprises around 250 species, being popular worldwide for their medicinal and aromatic properties. The present study aimed to evaluate the P. halepensis Mill. essential oil (PNO) in an Alzheimer’s disease (AD) environment as an anxiolytic and antidepressant agent. The AD-like symptoms were induced in Wistar male rats by intracerebroventricular administration of amyloid beta1-42 (Aβ1-42), and PNO (1% and 3%) was delivered to Aβ1-42 pre-treated rats via inhalation route for 21 consecutive days, 30 min before behavioral assessments. The obtained results indicate PNO’s potential to relieve anxious–depressive features and to restore redox imbalance in the rats exhibiting AD-like neuropsychiatric impairments. Moreover, PNO presented beneficial effects against neuroinflammation and neuroapoptosis in the Aβ1-42 rat AD model.

Cannabis terpenes display variable protective and anti-aggregatory actions against neurotoxic β amyloid in vitro: highlighting the protective bioactivity of α-bisabolol in motorneuronal-like NSC-34 cells

BACKGROUND

Terpenes form a diverse class of naturally occurring chemicals ascribed various biological activities. Cannabis contains over 400 different terpenes of varying chemical complexity which may add to the known biological activities of phytocannabinoids of relevance to the increasing use of medical cannabis; however, to date have been incompletely characterized. We assessed three terpenes predominant in cannabis: α-bisabolol, myrcene and β-caryophyllene for neuroprotective and anti-aggregative properties in both undifferentiated and differentiated NSC-34 motorneuronal-like cells as a sensitive model for neurotoxicity to oxidative stress and amyloid β (Aβ_1-42) protein exposure.

METHODS

Cell viability was assessed biochemically using the MTT assay in the presence of either α-bisabolol, myrcene and β-caryophyllene (1-1000µM) for 48hr. Sub-toxic threshold test concentrations of each terpene were then applied to cells, alone or with concomitant incubation with the lipid peroxidant tert-butyl hyrdroperoxide (t-BHP) or amyloid β (Aβ_1-42; 0-1µM) to assess neuroprotective effects. Direct effects of each terpene on Aβ fibril formation and aggregation were also evaluated using the Thioflavin T (ThT) fluorometric kinetic assay, circular dichroism and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to visualise fibril and aggregate morphology.

RESULTS

Terpenes were intrinsically benign to NSC-34 cells up to 100µM. No significant antioxidant effects were observed following t-BHP administration with myrcene and β-caryophyllene, however α-bisabolol provided a modest but significant increase in cell viability in undifferentiated cells. α-bisabolol also demonstrated a significant neuroprotective effect against amyloid β exposure, with β-caryophyllene also providing a lesser, but significant increase in cell viability. Protective effects of terpenes were more pronounced in undifferentiated versus differentiated cells, attributable more so to an attenuated loss of cell viability in response to Aβ_1-42 following NSC-34 cell differentiation. Neuroprotection was associated with a direct inhibition of Aβ_1-42 fibril and aggregate density, evidenced by both attenuated ThT fluorescence kinetics and both spectral and microscopic evidence of altered and diminished density of Aβ aggregates. While myrcene and β-caryophyllene also elicited reductions in ThT fluorescence and alterations in Aβ aggregation, these were less well associated with neuroprotective capacity.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight a neuroprotective role of α-bisabolol against Aβ-mediated neurotoxicity associated with an inhibition of Aβ fibrillization and modest antioxidant effect against lipid peroxidation, while β-caryophyllene also provided a small but significant measure of protection to Aβ-mediated neurotoxicity. Anti-aggregatory effects were not directly correlated with neuroprotective efficacy. This demonstrates that bioactivity of selected terpenes should be a consideration in the emergent use of medicinal cannabis formulations for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Converting Sugars into Cannabinoids—The State-of-the-Art of Heterologous Production in Microorganisms

The legal cannabis market worldwide is facing new challenges regarding innovation in the production of cannabinoid-based drugs. The usual cannabinoid production involves growing Cannabis sativa L. outdoor or in dedicated indoor growing facilities, followed by isolation and purification steps. This process is limited by the growth cycles of the plant, where the cannabinoid content can deeply vary from each harvest. A game change approach that does not involve growing a single plant has gained the attention of the industry: cannabinoids fermentation. From recombinant yeasts and bacteria, researchers are able to reproduce the biosynthetic pathway to generate cannabinoids, such as (-)-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC), cannabidiol (CBD), and (-)-Δ9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (Δ9-THCV). This approach avoids pesticides, and natural resources such as water, land, and energy are reduced. Compared to growing cannabis, fermentation is a much faster process, although its limitation regarding the phytochemical broad range of molecules naturally present in cannabis. So far, there is not a consolidated process for this brand-new approach, being an emerging and promising concept for countries in which cultivation of Cannabis sativa L. is illegal. This survey discusses the techniques and microorganisms already established to accomplish the task and those yet in seeing for the future, exploring upsides and limitations about metabolic pathways, toxicity, and downstream recovery of cannabinoids throughout heterologous production. Therapeutic potential applications of cannabinoids and in silico methodology toward optimization of metabolic pathways are also explored. Moreover, conceptual downstream analysis is proposed to illustrate the recovery and purification of cannabinoids through the fermentation process, and a patent landscape is presented to provide the state-of-the-art of the transfer of knowledge from the scientific sphere to the industrial application.

Multi-Target Approach of Murraya koenigii Leaves in Treating Neurodegenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) mainly affect neurons and gradually lead to a loss of normal motor and cognitive functions. Atypical protein homeostasis-misfolding, aggregations and accumulations, oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis-are common features in most NDs. To date, due to the complex etiology and pathogenesis of NDs, no defined treatment is available. There has been increasing interest in plant extracts as potential alternative medicines as the presence of various active components may exert synergistic and multi-pharmacological effects. Murraya koenigii (Rutaceae) is utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for various ailments. Pharmacological studies evidenced its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, antimicrobial, and neuroprotective activities, among others. In line with our interest in exploring natural agents for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, this review presents an overview of literature concerning the mechanisms of action and the safety profile of significant bioactive components present in M. koenigii leaves to support further investigations into their neuroprotective therapeutic potential.

Anti-Diabetes, Anti-Gout, and Anti-Leukemia Properties of Essential Oils from Natural Spices Clausena indica, Zanthoxylum rhetsa, and Michelia tonkinensis

Essential oils (EOs) of Clausena indica fruits, Zanthoxylum rhetsa fruits, and Michelia tonkinensis seeds were analyzed for their phytochemical profiles and biological activities, including anti-diabetes, anti-gout, and anti-leukemia properties. Sixty-six volatile compounds were identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), in which, myristicin (68.3%), limonene (44.2%), and linalool (49.3%) were the most prominent components of EOs extracted from C. indica, Z. rhetsa, and M. tonkinensis, respectively. In addition, only EOs from C. indica inhibited the activities of all tested enzymes comprising α-amylase (IC₅₀ = 7.73 mg/mL), α-glucosidase (IC₅₀ = 0.84 mg/mL), and xanthine oxidase (IC₅₀ = 0.88 mg/mL), which are related to type 2 diabetes and gout. Remarkably, all EOs from C. indica, Z. rhetsa (IC₅₀ = 0.73 mg/mL), and M. tonkinensis (IC₅₀ = 1.46 mg/mL) showed a stronger anti-α-glucosidase ability than acarbose (IC₅₀ = 2.69 mg/mL), a known anti-diabetic agent. Moreover, the growth of leukemia cell Meg-01 was significantly suppressed by all EOs, of which, the IC₅₀ values were recorded as 0.32, 0.64, and 0.31 mg/mL for EOs from C. indica, Z. rhetsa, and M. tonkinensis, respectively. As it stands, this is the first report about the inhibitory effects of EOs from C. indica and Z. rhetsa fruits, and M. tonkinensis seeds on the human leukemia cell line Meg-01 and key enzymes linked to diabetes and gout. In conclusion, the present study suggests that EOs from these natural spices may be promising candidates for pharmaceutical industries to develop nature-based drugs to treat diabetes mellitus or gout, as well as malignant hematological diseases such as leukemia.

Ameliorative effect of myrcene in mouse model of Alzheimer's disease

Myrcene (Myr) has been reported to show neuroprotective effects in cerebral ischemia. In this research work, we investigated the Myr effect on neurobehavioural, and neuropathological alteration in mice induced by Aluminium trichloride (AlCl3) and D - galactose. The administration of AlCl3 (5 mg/kg; p. o.), and D - galactose (60 mg/kg; i. p.) for 90 days in mice resulted in spatial learning and memory deficits, cognitive decline, as well as neurotoxicity. The treatments with Myr low dose (100 mg/kg), Myr high dose (200 mg/kg), donepezil (2 mg/kg), and Myr low dose + donepezil (100 + 2 mg/kg) were administered via intraperitoneal route for 30 days significantly reversed the neurobehavioral, and neuropathological effects of AlCl3 and D - galactose in mice. The results of behavioural tests such as Morris water maze, elevated plus maze, and locomotor; biochemical analysis such as malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), nitrite, and acetylcholinesterase (AChE); and ELISA tests such as mouse β - secretase (BACE), amyloid-beta peptide1-42 (Aβ1 - 42), tumor necrosis factor - α (TNF-α), interleukin - 6 (IL-6), and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) neuroprotective effect of the Myr and donepezil co-treatments. In addition, hematoxylin and eosin staining of the cerebral cortex and hippocampus revealed eosinophilic lesions and hyperchromatic nuclei in Alzheimer's disease mice, but treatments with Myr low dose, Myr high dose, donepezil, and Myr low dose + donepezil reversed these neurodegenerative effects. Myr showed these activities by enhancing synaptic plasticity and cholinergic activity, as well as reducing oxidative damage, neuroinflammation, Aβ1-42 aggregations, and histopathological damage. Myr alone and in combination with donepezil may serve as a potential candidate for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Neuroprotective effects of Coriandrum sativum and its constituent, linalool: A review

Objective:

Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) is an annual herb belonging to the Apiaceae (Umbellifera) family that is used as food additives traditionally. This plant is called “Geshniz” in Persian and is native to Mediterranean regions but it is currently cultivated in several countries. All parts of coriander are edible and have been traditionally used to treat different disorders, including digestive problems, flatulence, diarrhea, colic and other gastrointestinal diseases.

Materials and Methods:

The databases PubMed, Web of Science, Google Scholar and Scopus were considered. The search terms were “Coriandrum sativum” or “linalool” and “anti-anxiety”, “sedative”, “antioxidant effect”, “anticonvulsant” and “neuroprotective effect”.

Results:

Antioxidant, diuretic, cholesterol lowering, anxiolytic, sedative-hypnotic and anticonvulsant activities were reported for the seeds and leaves of the plant. Furthermore, linalool as the main component of coriander has different neuropharmacological effects, including anti-anxiety, sedative, anticonvulsant and anti-Alzheimer’s disease activities.

Conclusion:

Various neuropharmacological effects of C. sativum and its component which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, have been summarized in the current review article.

Myrcene-What Are the Potential Health Benefits of This Flavouring and Aroma Agent?

Myrcene (β-myrcene) is an abundant monoterpene which occurs as a major constituent in many plant species, including hops and cannabis. It is a popular flavouring and aroma agent (food additive) used in the manufacture of food and beverages. This review aims to report on the occurrence, biological and toxicological profile of β-myrcene. The main reported biological properties of β-myrcene-anxiolytic, antioxidant, anti-ageing, anti-inflammatory, analgesic properties-are discussed, with the mechanisms of activity. Here we also discuss recent data regarding the safety of β-myrcene. Overall, β-myrcene has shown promising health benefits in many animal studies. However, studies conducted in humans is lacking. In the future, there is potential for the formulation and production of non-alcoholic beers, functional foods and drinks, and cannabis extracts (low in THC) rich in β-myrcene.

Neuroprotective Phytochemicals in Experimental Ischemic Stroke: Mechanisms and Potential Clinical Applications

Ischemic stroke is a challenging disease with high mortality and disability rates, causing a great economic and social burden worldwide. During ischemic stroke, ionic imbalance and excitotoxicity, oxidative stress, and inflammation are developed in a relatively certain order, which then activate the cell death pathways directly or indirectly via the promotion of organelle dysfunction. Neuroprotection, a therapy that is aimed at inhibiting this damaging cascade, is therefore an important therapeutic strategy for ischemic stroke. Notably, phytochemicals showed great neuroprotective potential in preclinical research via various strategies including modulation of calcium levels and antiexcitotoxicity, antioxidation, anti-inflammation and BBB protection, mitochondrial protection and antiapoptosis, autophagy/mitophagy regulation, and regulation of neurotrophin release. In this review, we summarize the research works that report the neuroprotective activity of phytochemicals in the past 10 years and discuss the neuroprotective mechanisms and potential clinical applications of 148 phytochemicals that belong to the categories of flavonoids, stilbenoids, other phenols, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Among them, scutellarin, pinocembrin, puerarin, hydroxysafflor yellow A, salvianolic acids, rosmarinic acid, borneol, bilobalide, ginkgolides, ginsenoside Rd, and vinpocetine show great potential in clinical ischemic stroke treatment. This review will serve as a powerful reference for the screening of phytochemicals with potential clinical applications in ischemic stroke or the synthesis of new neuroprotective agents that take phytochemicals as leading compounds.

Neuroprotective Studies on Polygonum hydropiper L. Essential Oils Using Transgenic Animal Models

Polygonum hydropiper L. and related species are reported to possess neuroprotective potentials. In an attempt to validate its anti-Alzheimer's potentials, leaf oils (Ph. Lo) were extensively evaluated in this study against several in vitro and in vivo models of Alzheimer's disease. The Ph. Lo were tested against pathological targets of Alzheimer's diseases (ADs). The in vitro and in vivo assays were done for cholinesterase inhibition, anti-radical properties and cognitive assessments using transgenic animal models. In preliminary cholinesterase inhibition assays, Ph. Lo were more active against acetylcholinesterase (AChE), butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), 2,2-azinobis (3-ethylbenzthiazoline)-6-sulfonic acid (ABTS), and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) radicals. Subsequently, Ph. Lo was evaluated for its effects on special memory, exploratory behavior, and coordination using shallow water maze (SWM), Y-maze, open filed, and balance beam tests. Animal pre-genotyping was done via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to confirm amyloid precursor protein (APP) transgene, and after completion of drug therapy, brain homogenates from the cortex and hippocampus were evaluated for cholinesterase and free radical studies. In SWM task, disease control animals treated with 10 mg/kg of Ph. Lo for 5 days exhibited significant improvement in cognitive performance indicated by low escape times on 5th day compared with normal animals. In the Y-maze test, transgenic animals showed higher spontaneous alternation behavior than disease control animals and standard control group animals. Ph. Lo therapy has improved the exploratory behavior and declined anxiety behavior in diseased animals as accessed via open field test. Ph. Lo administration significantly augmented the motor and coordination abilities of transgenic animals when compared to other groups of animals and declined AChE, BChE activities as well as free radicals load in the cortex and hippocampus tissues. Based on our finding, it is concluded that Ph. Lo exhibit significant neuroprotective potentials preliminary due to their anti-radicals and cholinesterase inhibitory activities. Ph. Lo need further detailed studies as potential aromatherapy against neurodegenerative disorders.

Effects of dietary monoterpene, myrcene, administration on immune- and health-related genes expression in common carp gill following exposure to copper sulfate

The present study assessed the potential benefits of myrcene administration to suppress negative effects of copper exposure on immune-, antioxidant-, tight junction-, stress- and osmoregulatory-related gene expressions in common carp (Cyprinus carpio) gill. Fish were fed with diets containing 0% (control), 0.5% (M0.5) and 1% (M1) myrcene for 6 weeks, and then, exposed to 0.25 mg/L copper for further two weeks. The fish gill samples were taken for gene expression assays after six and eight weeks. The results showed that there were interaction effects of myrcene levels and copper exposure on superoxide dismutase (sod), catalase (cat), glutathione peroxidase (gpx), glutathione-s-transferase (gst), glutathione reductase (gr), heat shock protein-70 (hsp70), interleukin 1-beta (il1b), interleukin 10 (il10), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (tnfa), occludin (occl), caludin 3 (cld3), caludin 7 (cld7), and Na⁺-K⁺-ATPase (nka) genes expressions. Overall, the M0.5 treatment had significantly lower antioxidant genes expression, and higher hsp70, cytokines, tight-junction proteins, and nka genes expression, compared to the control treatment, before copper exposure. Copper exposure significantly down-regulated most of the tested genes (except il10), however, the M0.5 treatment had significantly higher antioxidant (except gpx), hsp70, cld7, and nka gene expression compared to the control treatment. The M1 treatment showed fluctuated antioxidant gene expressions, down-regulated gene expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokines, and occl, and up-regulation of cld3 gene expressions, before copper exposure. After copper exposure, this treatment had significantly higher gr and cat expression compared to the control; moreover, there was a marked up-regulation in il10 gene expression in this treatment, which was the highest value among all treatment combinations. In conclusion, copper exposure significantly down-regulates antioxidant-, inflammatory-, and tight junction-related along with hsp70 and nka genes expression in common carp gills. Pre-treatment with 0.5% myrcene is beneficial to suppress such negative effects, probably due to its antioxidant properties. However, myrcene administration must be done with caution, as higher levels may interfere with antioxidant and immune defenses.

The Effect of Rosmarinic Acid on Apoptosis and nNOS Immunoreactivity Following Intrahippocampal Kainic Acid Injections in Rats

Introduction:

Kainic Acid (KA) is an ionotropic glutamate receptor agonist. KA can induce neuronal overactivity and excitotoxicity. Rosmarinic Acid (RA) is a natural polyphenolic compound with antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, anti-neurodegenerative, and anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to assess the effect of RA on apoptosis, nNOS-positive neurons number, as well as Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase (MAPK) and Cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) immunoreactivity, following intrahippocampal Kainic acid injection in rats.

Methods:

The study rats were randomly assigned to three groups of sham, KA (KA was injected into the right side of the hippocampus) and KA+RA (a dose of 10 mg/kg/day through a gavage needle for one week before KA injection). Then, histopathological changes, including apoptosis [Terminal Deoxynucleotidyl Transferase (TdT) dUTP Nick-End Labeling (TUNEL) assay], nNOS-positive neurons number, as well as COX-2 and MAPK immunoreactivity were evaluated in the hippocampus.

Results:

In the RA pretreated group, nNOS-positive neurons and TUNEL-positive cells were significantly reduced compared to the KA group (P<0.05). COX-2and MAPK immunoreactivity demonstrated no significant changes compared to the KA group. They indicated a significant higher reactivity for COX-2 (P<0.01) and MAPK (P<0.005) versus the sham group.

Conclusion:

RA had neuroprotective effects, compared to KA, through reduced apoptosis and nNOS-positive neurons, but not MAPK and COX-2.

Medicinal properties of terpenes found in Cannabis sativa and Humulus lupulus

Cannabaceae plants Cannabis sativa L. and Humulus lupulus L. are rich in terpenes - both are typically comprised of terpenes as up to 3-5% of the dry-mass of the female inflorescence. Terpenes of cannabis and hops are typically simple mono- and sesquiterpenes derived from two and three isoprene units, respectively. Some terpenes are relatively well known for their potential in biomedicine and have been used in traditional medicine for centuries, while others are yet to be studied in detail. The current, comprehensive review presents terpenes found in cannabis and hops. Terpenes' medicinal properties are supported by numerous in vitro, animal and clinical trials and show anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, anticonvulsive, antidepressant, anxiolytic, anticancer, antitumor, neuroprotective, anti-mutagenic, anti-allergic, antibiotic and anti-diabetic attributes, among others. Because of the very low toxicity, these terpenes are already widely used as food additives and in cosmetic products. Thus, they have been proven safe and well-tolerated.

Effects of Lippia sidoides essential oil, thymol, p-cymene, myrcene and caryophyllene on rat sciatic nerve excitability

Lippia sidoides Cham is a typical herb species of Northeast Brazil with widespread use in folk medicine. The major constituents of the essential oil of L. sidoides (EOLs) are thymol, p-cymene, myrcene, and caryophyllene. Several studies have shown that the EOLs and its constituents have pharmacological effects, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and neuroprotective activity. Therefore, this work aimed to investigate the effects of the EOLs and their main constituents on rat sciatic nerve excitability. The sciatic nerves of adult Wistar rats were dissected and mounted in a moist chamber. Nerves were stimulated by square wave pulses, with an amplitude of 40 V, duration of 100 μs to 0.2 Hz. Both EOLs and thymol inhibited compound action potential (CAP) in a concentration-dependent manner. Half maximal inhibitory concentration for CAP peak-to-peak amplitude blockade were 67.85 and 40 µg/mL for EOLs and thymol, respectively. CAP peak-to-peak amplitude was significantly reduced by concentrations ≥60 µg/mL for EOLs and ≥30 µg/mL for thymol. EOLs and thymol in the concentration of 60 µg/mL significantly increased chronaxie and rheobase. The conduction velocities of 1st and 2nd CAP components were also concentration-dependently reduced by EOLs and thymol in the range of 30-100 µg/mL. Differently from EOLs and thymol, p-cymene, myrcene and caryophyllene did not reduce CAP in the higher concentrations of 10 mM. These data demonstrated that EOLs and thymol inhibited neuronal excitability and were promising agents for the development of new drugs for therapeutic use.

Exploring a volatomic-based strategy for a fingerprinting approach of Vaccinium padifolium L. berries at different ripening stages

The effect of ripening on the evolution of the volatomic pattern from endemic Vaccinium padifolium L. (Uveira) berries was investigated using headspace-solid phase microextraction (HS-SPME) followed by gas chromatography/quadrupole-mass spectrometry (GC-qMS) and multivariate statistical analysis (MVA). The most significant HS-SPME parameters, namely fibre polymer, ionic strength and extraction time, were optimized in order to improve extraction efficiency. Under optimal experimental conditions (DVB/CAR/PDMS fibre coating, 40°C, 30min extraction time and 5g of sample amount), a total of 72 volatiles of different functionalities were isolated and identified. Terpenes followed by higher alcohols and esters were the predominant classes in the ripening stages - green, break and ripe. Although significant differences in the volatomic profiles at the three stages were obtained, cis-β-ocimene (2.0-40.0%), trans-2-hexenol (2.4-19.4%), cis-3-hexenol (2.5.16.4%), β-myrcene (1.9-13.8%), 1-hexanol (1.7-13.6%), 2-hexenal (0.7-8.0%), 2-heptanone (0.7-7.7%), and linalool (1.9-6.1%) were the main volatile compounds identified. Higher alcohols, carboxylic acids and ketones gradually increased during ripening, whereas monoterpenes significantly decreased. These trends were dominated by the higher alcohols (1-hexanol, cis-3-hexenol, trans-2-hexenol) and monoterpenes (β-myrcene, cis-β-ocimene and trans-β-ocimene). Partial least squares regression (PLSR) revealed that ethyl caprylate (1.000), trans-geraniol (0.995), ethyl isovalerate (-0.994) and benzyl carbinol (0.993) are the key variables that most contributed to the successful differentiation of Uveira berries according to ripening stage. To the best of our knowledge, no study has carried out on the volatomic composition of berries from endemic Uveira.

Cannabis Pharmacology: The Usual Suspects and a Few Promising Leads

The golden age of cannabis pharmacology began in the 1960s as Raphael Mechoulam and his colleagues in Israel isolated and synthesized cannabidiol, tetrahydrocannabinol, and other phytocannabinoids. Initially, THC garnered most research interest with sporadic attention to cannabidiol, which has only rekindled in the last 15 years through a demonstration of its remarkably versatile pharmacology and synergy with THC. Gradually a cognizance of the potential of other phytocannabinoids has developed. Contemporaneous assessment of cannabis pharmacology must be even far more inclusive. Medical and recreational consumers alike have long believed in unique attributes of certain cannabis chemovars despite their similarity in cannabinoid profiles. This has focused additional research on the pharmacological contributions of mono- and sesquiterpenoids to the effects of cannabis flower preparations. Investigation reveals these aromatic compounds to contribute modulatory and therapeutic roles in the cannabis entourage far beyond expectations considering their modest concentrations in the plant. Synergistic relationships of the terpenoids to cannabinoids will be highlighted and include many complementary roles to boost therapeutic efficacy in treatment of pain, psychiatric disorders, cancer, and numerous other areas. Additional parts of the cannabis plant provide a wide and distinct variety of other compounds of pharmacological interest, including the triterpenoid friedelin from the roots, canniprene from the fan leaves, cannabisin from seed coats, and cannflavin A from seed sprouts. This chapter will explore the unique attributes of these agents and demonstrate how cannabis may yet fulfil its potential as Mechoulam's professed "pharmacological treasure trove."

Rosmarinic acid protects rat hippocampal neurons from cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury via the Akt/JNK3/caspase-3 signaling pathway

Cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury can result in neuronal death, which further results in brain damage and can even lead to death. Although recent studies showed that rosmarinic acid (RA) exerts neuroprotective effects and attenuates ischemia-induced brain injury and neuronal cell death, little is known about the precise mechanisms that occur during cerebral ischemia/reperfusion (I/R). Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine the underlying mechanism of the neuroprotective effects of RA against ischemic brain injury induced by cerebral I/R. Transient global brain ischemia was induced by 4-vessel occlusion in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats. We randomly divided rats into five groups: sham, I/R, I/R+RA, I/R+Vehicle and I/R+RA+LY. Open-field, closed-field and Morris water maze tests were carried our separately to examine the anxiety and cognitive behavior of each group. Cresyl violet staining was used to examine the survival of hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons. The levels of p-Akt, p-JNK3 and cleaved caspase-3 in the hippocampus were also examined by Western blotting. Our results showed that administration of RA protected locomotive ability, relieved anxiety behavior and protected cognitive ability in cerebral I/R-injured rats. Additionally, RA significantly protected neurons in the hippocampal CA1 region against cerebral I/R-induced damage. Furthermore, RA increased the phosphorylation of Akt1, downregulated the phosphorylation of JNK3 and reduced the expression of cleaved caspase-3. Finally, the Akt inhibitor LY294002 reversed all the protective effects of RA, indicating that RA protects neurons in the hippocampal CA1 region from ischemic damage through the Akt/JNK3/caspase-3 signaling pathway.

An Updated Phytopharmacological Review on Medicinal Plant of Arab Region: Apium graveolens Linn

Apium graveolens Linn. (Karafs) is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of the various ailments. There is a need to explore and authenticate the pharmacological profile and medicinal importance of the Karafs. In this paper, the literature and the published work on Apium were collected using online resources “Google scholar”, “Web of science”, “Scopus” and “PubMed”. Each of the pharmacological activity was searched individually using the keywords “Apium/Karafs/Apium graveolens + individual pharmacological activity”. We documented the most cited and most recent literatures. The current findings illuminate the importance Karafs in the traditional medicine and their impact in treating various diseases. This review strongly supports the fact that the Apium has emerged as a good source of medicine in treating various diseases. There is also a need to isolate the bioactive phytochemicals present in this plant.

Atorvastatin Attenuates Ischemia/Reperfusion-Induced Hippocampal Neurons Injury Via Akt-nNOS-JNK Signaling Pathway

Ischemia-induced brain damage leads to apoptosis like delayed neuronal death in selectively vulnerable regions, which could further result in irreversible damages. Previous studies have demonstrated that neurons in the CA1 area of hippocampus are particularly sensitive to ischemic damage. Atorvastatin (ATV) has been reported to attenuate cognitive deficits after stroke, but precise mechanism for neuroprotection remains unknown. Therefore, the aims of this study were to investigate the neuroprotective mechanisms of ATV against ischemic brain injury induced by cerebral ischemia reperfusion. In this study, four-vessel occlusion model was established in rats with cerebral ischemia. Rats were divided into five groups: sham group, I/R group, I/R+ATV group, I/R+ATV+LY, and I/R+SP600125 group. Cresyl violet staining was carried out to examine the neuronal death of hippocampal CA1 region. Immunoblotting was used to detect the expression of the related proteins. Results showed that ATV significantly protected hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons against cerebral I/R. ATV could increase the phosphorylation of protein kinase B (Akt1) and nNOS, diminished the phosphorylation of JNK3 and c-Jun, and further inhibited the activation of caspase-3. Whereas, all of the aforementioned effects of ATV were reversed by LY294002 (an inhibitor of Akt1). Furthermore, pretreatment with SP600125 (an inhibitor of JNK) diminished the phosphorylation of JNK3 and c-Jun, and further inhibited the activation of caspase-3 after cerebral I/R. Taken together, our results implied that Akt-mediated phosphorylation of nNOS is involved in the neuroprotection of ATV against ischemic brain injury via suppressing JNK3 signaling pathway that provide a new experimental foundation for stroke therapy.

Kazakh Ziziphora Species as Sources of Bioactive Substances

Ziziphora species represent the prototypical example of the Lamiaceae family. The phytochemicals present in Ziziphora include monoterpenic essential oils, triterpenes and phenolic substances belonging to the flavonoids. In Kazakh traditional medicine, Ziziphora species possess several medicinal uses. In particular, Z. bungeana Lam. and Z. clinopodioides Lam. are used for the treatment of illnesses related to the cardiovascular system or to combat different infections. Unfortunately, the majority of the information about the complex Ziziphora species is only available in Russian and Chinese language, therefore, we decided gather all available information on Kazakhstan Ziziphora, namely its content compounds, medicinal uses and published patents, to draw the attention of scientists to this very interesting plant with high medicinal potential.

Neuroprotective effects of Rhizoma Dioscoreae polysaccharides against neuronal apoptosis induced by in vitro hypoxia

Rhizoma Dioscoreae polysaccharides (RDPS) are the primary active ingredient of Rhizoma Dioscoreae, which is a traditional Chinese medicine. RDPS have previously been shown to scavenge reactive oxygen species, and protect against D-galactose-induced mimetic aging. The present study aimed to investigate the neuroprotective effects of RDPS against hypoxia-induced neuronal cell apoptosis. Neuronal cells harvested from pregnant Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into groups, as follows: i) Normal control group; ii) hypoxia-induced apoptosis neuronal cell model; iii) 0.025 g/l RDPS-treated group; iv) 0.05 g/l RDPS-treated group; v) 0.1 g/l RDPS-treated group; and vi) 0.25 g/l RDPS treated group. Neuronal cell viability was investigated using an MTT assay, and neuronal cell apoptosis was analyzed using Annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/propidium iodide double-staining, Hoechst 33342 fluorescent staining, Rhodamine 123 staining, polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemical staining. The RDPS-treated neuronal cells exhibited improved viability, and decreased hypoxia-induced mitochondrial injury and apoptosis. In addition, the mRNA and protein expression levels of caspase-3 and B-cell lymphoma (Bcl)-2-associated X protein (Bax) were significantly downregulated, whereas the mRNA and protein expression levels of Bcl-2 were significantly upregulated, in the RDPS-treated hypoxic neurons, as compared with the apoptosis model (P<0.05). Furthermore, the ratio of Bcl-2 expression:Bax expression significantly increased following RDPS treatment, as compared with the apoptosis model (P<0.05). The results of the present study suggested that RDPS may attenuate hypoxia-induced neuronal cell apoptosis by altering the expression levels of key apoptosis-regulating proteins in hypoxic neurons.

Rosmarinic acid exerts a neuroprotective effect in the kainate rat model of temporal lobe epilepsy: Underlying mechanisms

CONTEXT

Temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE) is an intractable neurological disorder. Rosmarinic acid (RA) is a natural polyphenol with antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-inflammatory properties.

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluates beneficial effect of RA in intrahippocampal kainate-induced model of TLE.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Rats were divided into sham, RA-pretreated sham, kainate, and sodium valproate (VA) or RA-pretreated kainate groups. Rats received RA or VA p.o. at doses of 10 or 300 mg/kg/d, respectively, starting 1 week before the surgery. After 6 weeks, seizure intensity, apoptosis, and oxidative stress markers were evaluated in addition to determination of Timm index as an indicator of mossy fiber sprouting (MFS) and the number of Nissl-stained neurons.

RESULTS

All rats in the kainate group had seizure and 24.3% of rats in the kainate + VA group and 36.7% of rats in the kainate + RA group showed seizure. The kainate group had a significant elevation of malondialdehyde (MDA) (p < 0.05) and nitrite (p < 0.01) and reduction of glutathione (GSH) and catalase activity (p < 0.05) and pretreatment of kainate-lesioned rats with RA or VA significantly lowered MDA and nitrite content (p < 0.05) and raised activity of catalase (p < 0.05). The kainate group also had a significant reduction of neurons in CA1 and CA3 regions and an elevation of Timm index (p < 0.05-0.001) and RA or VA significantly (p < 0.05-0.01) prevented these changes.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

RA could attenuate seizure, mitigates oxidative stress, augments the activity of defensive systems, and prevent hippocampal neuronal loss and MFS in the kainate model of TLE.

Hesperidin, a Citrus Flavonoid, Has the Ameliorative Effects Against Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis (EAE) in a C57BL/J6 Mouse Model

The aim of this study was determined the effects of Hesperidin (HP) on neuronal damage in brain tissue caused by Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), an established model of multiple sclerosis in C57BL/J6 mice. To explore 40 mice were equally divided into four groups: (1) Control, (2) EAE, (3) HP, and (4) HP + EAE. 14 days after induction of EAE with MOG35-55 and pertussis toxin, the mice treated with HP at the doses of 50 mg/kg/day for 7 days subcutaneously. To our results HP treatment prevents the oxidative stress caused by EAE via a decrease in lipid peroxidations and increase in elements of the antioxidant defense systems in brain tissue. Also, EAE elevate the IL-17, express the pro-inflammatory cytokines, and caspase-3-like immunreactivity, show apoptosis, staining in EAE mice brain and increased the incidence of histopathological damage. However, immonohistochemical and histological changes were reversed with HP. Moreover, elevated TNF-α and IL-1β levels, a result of EAE, were decreased in serum and neurological deficits as clinical signs were reversed with HP treatment in EAE mice, given HP. In conclusion, HP treatment effectively prevents oxidative, immunological and histological damage in the brain caused by EAE. It was thought that the beneficial effects of HP are likely a result of its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Are you also what your mother eats? Distinct proteomic portrait as a result of maternal high-fat diet in the cerebral cortex of the adult mouse

Epidemiological studies suggest an association between maternal obesity and adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring. Our aim was to compare the global proteomic portrait in the cerebral cortex between mice born to mothers on a high-fat or control diet who themselves were fed a high-fat or control diet. Male mice born to dams fed a control (C) or high-fat (H) diet 4 weeks before conception and during gestation, and lactation were assigned to either C or H diet at weaning. Mice were killed at 19 weeks and their cerebral cortices were analysed using a two-dimensional liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry methodology. In total, 6 695 proteins were identified (q<0.01), 10% of which were modulated in at least one of the groups relative to controls. In silico analysis revealed that mice clustered based on the diet of the mother and not their own diet and that maternal high-fat diet was significantly associated with response to hypoxia/oxidative stress and apoptosis in the cerebral cortex of the adult offspring. Maternal high-fat diet resulted in distinct endophenotypic changes of the adult offspring cerebral cortex independent of its current diet. The identified proteins could represent novel therapeutic targets for the prevention of neuropathological features resulting from maternal obesity.