Modulatory effect of coffee fruit extract on plasma levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor in healthy subjects

Grape seed extract protects rat offspring hippocampus from the silicon dioxide nanoparticles' neurotoxicity

Silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO2-NPs) can be found in many products, such as composites, paints, ceramics, consumer products, and food additives. We recently demonstrated that via breastfeeding, SiO2-NPs transfer to the offspring's brain, interfering negatively with hippocampus development. In this work, we evaluated the protective effect of grape seed extract (GSE) against the adverse effects of SiO2-NPs. After delivery, animals were administered 25 mg/kg SiO2-NPs with/without GSE (300 mg/kg) for 20 days (from 2nd to 21st days post-delivery) by gavage. SiO2-NPs increased malondialdehyde concentration and decreased antioxidant activity in the offspring's hippocampi. The mean number of dark neurons (DNs) was significantly higher in the hippocampi of the SiO2-NPs group, whereas the mean number of DCX + cells was significantly lower than in the control group. The offspring in the SiO2-NPs groups had a weak cognitive performance in adulthood. Interestingly, these adverse effects of SiO2-NPs were alleviated in the GSE-treated groups. Therefore, GSE can attenuate the damaging effects of maternal exposure to SiO2-NPs during lactation.

Whole Coffee Cherry Extract Improves Working Memory and Response Inhibition: Acute and Longitudinal Results from a Remote, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

Earlier laboratory-based evidence has suggested that polyphenol-rich, decaffeinated whole coffee cherry extract (CCE) supports improvements in acute and long-term cognitive performance. To better understand CCE's potential to promote cognitive processing, we conducted a first-of-its-kind remote clinical trial. Participants were randomized into one of two intervention arms: placebo or 200 mg CCE. At the beginning of the study, participants were asked to complete a set of acute cognitive challenges as part of the baseline assessment. Tasks were nearly identical to those used in previous, laboratory-based research. Acute results support that CCE outperformed placebo, reducing omissions and improving accuracy, during working memory and inhibitory control tasks. Long-term results indicate that CCE outperformed placebo on a measure of accuracy. This contributes to the literature in three ways: (1) results improve upon previously reported robust and consistent findings in a real-world setting that a single-dose of CCE acutely improved cognitive performance; (2) results replicate previous laboratory findings but in a real-world setting that long-term CCE supplementation outperformed placebo on measures of accuracy in a working memory task; and (3) it serves as proof of concept of a novel remote clinical trial model that may provide real-world evidence of efficacy while increasing accessibility and cohort diversity.

International society of sports nutrition position stand: coffee and sports performance

Based on review and critical analysis of the literature regarding the contents and physiological effects of coffee related to physical and cognitive performance conducted by experts in the field and selected members of the International Society of Sports Nutrition (ISSN), the following conclusions represent the official Position of the Society:(1) Coffee is a complex matrix of hundreds of compounds. These are consumed with broad variability based upon serving size, bean type (e.g. common Arabica vs. Robusta), and brew method (water temperature, roasting method, grind size, time, and equipment).(2) Coffee's constituents, including but not limited to caffeine, have neuromuscular, antioxidant, endocrine, cognitive, and metabolic (e.g. glucose disposal and vasodilation) effects that impact exercise performance and recovery.(3) Coffee's physiologic effects are influenced by dose, timing, habituation to a small degree (to coffee or caffeine), nutrigenetics, and potentially by gut microbiota differences, sex, and training status.(4) Coffee and/or its components improve performance across a temporal range of activities from reaction time, through brief power exercises, and into the aerobic time frame in most but not all studies. These broad and varied effects have been demonstrated in men (mostly) and in women, with effects that can differ from caffeine ingestion, per se. More research is needed.(5) Optimal dosing and timing are approximately two to four cups (approximately 473-946 ml or 16-32 oz.) of typical hot-brewed or reconstituted instant coffee (depending on individual sensitivity and body size), providing a caffeine equivalent of 3-6 mg/kg (among other components such as chlorogenic acids at approximately 100-400 mg per cup) 60 min prior to exercise.(6) Coffee has a history of controversy regarding side effects but is generally considered safe and beneficial for healthy, exercising individuals in the dose range above.(7) Coffee can serve as a vehicle for other dietary supplements, and it can interact with nutrients in other foods.(8) A dearth of literature exists examining coffee-specific ergogenic and recovery effects, as well as variability in the operational definition of "coffee," making conclusions more challenging than when examining caffeine in its many other forms of delivery (capsules, energy drinks, "pre-workout" powders, gum, etc.).

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Parallel Study Investigating the Efficacy of a Whole Coffee Cherry Extract and Phosphatidylserine Formulation on Cognitive Performance of Healthy Adults with Self-Perceived Memory Problems

INTRODUCTION

Cognition refers to brain functions including memory, learning, and thought processing and is increasingly important to individuals. However, impairment of cognitive function is a concern among North American adults. Therefore, effective and reliable treatments are needed.

METHODS

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study examined the effects of 42 days of Neuriva® supplementation, a whole coffee cherry extract and phosphatidylserine supplement, on memory, accuracy, focus and concentration and learning among 138 healthy adults (40-65 years) with self-reported memory problems. Plasma brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, Computerized Mental Performance Assessment System (COMPASS) tasks, the Everyday Memory Questionnaire (EMQ), and Go/No-Go tests were assessed at baseline and day 42.

RESULTS

As compared to placebo, Neuriva® supplementation elicited greater improvements at day 42 in numeric working memory COMPASS task accuracy outcomes (p ≤ 0.024) which assessed memory, accuracy, and focus and concentration, and reaction time outcomes (p ≤ 0.031) which assessed memory as well as focus and concentration. Neuriva® supplementation improved overall accuracy (p = 0.035) in the picture recognition task that assessed memory, accuracy, and learning compared to placebo. No significant differences between groups were observed for BDNF, the EMQ, or Go/No-Go tests.

CONCLUSION

Results suggest 42 days of Neuriva® supplementation was safe, well tolerated, and beneficial in improving memory, accuracy, focus and concentration, and learning in a healthy adult population with self-reported memory problems.

Toward Prevention and Reduction of Alzheimer's Disease

Different investigations lead to the urgent need to generate validated clinical protocols as a tool for medical doctors to orientate patients under risk for a preventive approach to control Alzheimer's disease. Moreover, there is consensus that the combined effects of risk factors for the disease can be modified according to lifestyle, thus controlling at least 40% of cases. The other fraction of cases are derived from candidate genes and epigenetic components as a relevant factor in AD pathogenesis. At this point, it appears to be of critical relevance the search for molecular biomarkers that may provide information on probable pathological events and alert about early detectable risks to prevent symptomatic events of the disease. These precocious detection markers will then allow early interventions of non-symptomatic subjects at risk. Here, we summarize the status and potential avenues of prevention and highlight the usefulness of biological and reliable markers for AD.

Precision Medicine Approach to Alzheimer's Disease: Rationale and Implications

The neurodegenerative disease field has enjoyed extremely limited success in the development of effective therapeutics. One potential reason is the lack of disease models that yield accurate predictions and optimal therapeutic targets. Standard clinical trials have pre-determined a single treatment modality, which may be unrelated to the primary drivers of neurodegeneration. Recent proof-of-concept clinical trials using a precision medicine approach suggest a new model of Alzheimer's disease (AD) as a chronic innate encephalitis that creates a network insufficiency. Identifying and addressing the multiple potential contributors to cognitive decline for each patient may represent a more effective strategy. Here we review the rationale for a precision medicine approach in prevention and treatment of cognitive decline associated with AD. Results and implications from recent proof-of-concept clinical trials are presented. Randomized controlled trials, with much larger patient numbers, are likely to be significant to establishing precision medicine protocols as a standard of care for prevention and treatment of cognitive decline. Furthermore, combining this approach with the pharmaceutical approach offers the potential for enhanced outcomes. However, incorporating precision medicine approaches into everyday evaluation and care, as well as future clinical trials, would require fundamental changes in trial design, IRB considerations, funding considerations, laboratory evaluation, personalized treatment plans, treatment teams, and ultimately in reimbursement guidelines. Nonetheless, precision medicine approaches to AD, based on a novel model of AD pathophysiology, offer promise that has not been realized to date with monotherapeutic approaches.

Mental Performance and Sport: Caffeine and Co-consumed Bioactive Ingredients

The plant defence compound caffeine is widely consumed as a performance enhancer in a sporting context, with potential benefits expected in both physiological and psychological terms. However, although caffeine modestly but consistently improves alertness and fatigue, its effects on mental performance are largely restricted to improved attention or concentration. It has no consistent effect within other cognitive domains that are important to sporting performance, including working memory, executive function and long-term memory. Although caffeine's central nervous system effects are often attributed to blockade of the receptors for the inhibitory neuromodulator adenosine, it also inhibits a number of enzymes involved both in neurotransmission and in cellular homeostasis and signal propagation. Furthermore, it modulates the pharmacokinetics of other endogenous and exogenous bioactive molecules, in part via interactions with shared cytochrome P450 enzymes. Caffeine therefore enjoys interactive relationships with a wide range of bioactive medicinal and dietary compounds, potentially broadening, increasing, decreasing, or modulating the time course of their functional effects, or vice versa. This narrative review explores the mechanisms of action and efficacy of caffeine and the potential for combinations of caffeine and other dietary compounds to exert psychological effects in excess of those expected following caffeine alone. The review focusses on, and indeed restricted its untargeted search to, the most commonly consumed sources of caffeine: products derived from caffeine-synthesising plants that give us tea (Camellia sinensis), coffee (Coffea genus), cocoa (Theabroma cacao) and guaraná (Paullinia cupana), plus multi-component energy drinks and shots. This literature suggests relevant benefits to mental performance that exceed those associated with caffeine for multi-ingredient energy drinks/shots and several low-caffeine extracts, including high-flavanol cocoa and guarana. However, there is a general lack of research conducted in such a way as to disentangle the relative contributions of the component parts of these products.

The Roles of Neurotrophins in Traumatic Brain Injury

Neurotrophins are a collection of structurally and functionally related proteins. They play important roles in many aspects of neural development, survival, and plasticity. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) leads to different levels of central nervous tissue destruction and cellular repair through various compensatory mechanisms promoted by the injured brain. Many studies have shown that neurotrophins are key modulators of neuroinflammation, apoptosis, blood–brain barrier permeability, memory capacity, and neurite regeneration. The expression of neurotrophins following TBI is affected by the severity of injury, genetic polymorphism, and different post-traumatic time points. Emerging research is focused on the potential therapeutic applications of neurotrophins in managing TBI. We conducted a comprehensive review by organizing the studies that demonstrate the role of neurotrophins in the management of TBI.

Coffeeberry Activates the CaMKII/CREB/BDNF Pathway, Normalizes Autophagy and Apoptosis Signaling in Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Rodent Model

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) shows extensive liver cell destruction with lipid accumulation, which is frequently accompanied by metabolic comorbidities and increases mortality. This study aimed to investigate the effects of coffeeberry (CB) on regulating the redox status, the CaMKII/CREB/BDNF pathway, autophagy, and apoptosis signaling by a NAFLD rodent model senescence-accelerated mice prone 8 (SAMP8). Three-month-old male SAMP8 mice were divided into a control group and three CB groups (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg BW), and fed for 12 weeks. The results show that CB reduced hepatic malondialdehyde and carbonyl protein levels. CB significantly enhanced Ca²⁺/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and reduced the phospho-cAMP response element-binding protein (p-CREB)/CREB ratio. In addition, CB increased the silent information regulator T1 level, promoted Beclin 1 and microtubule-associated protein light chain 3 II expressions, and reduced phosphorylated mammalian target of rapamycin and its downstream p-p70s6k levels. CB also inhibited the expressions of apoptosis-related factors poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase-1 and the apoptosis-inducing factor. In conclusion, CB might protect the liver by reducing oxidative stress, activating the CaMKII/CREB/BDNF pathway, and improving autophagic and apoptotic expressions in a dose-dependent manner.

Disease-modifying treatment of Parkinson's disease by phytochemicals: targeting multiple pathogenic factors

Parkinson's disease is characterized by typical motor symptoms, loss of dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra, and accumulation of Lewy body composed of mutated α-synuclein. However, now it is considered as a generalized disease with multiple pathological features. Present available treatments can ameliorate symptoms at least for a while, but only a few therapies could delay progressive neurodegeneration of dopamine neurons. Lewy body accumulates in peripheral tissues many years before motor dysfunction becomes manifest, suggesting that disease-modifying therapy should start earlier during the premotor stage. Long-termed regulation of lifestyle, diet and supplement of nutraceuticals may be possible ways for the disease-modification. Diet can reduce the incidence of Parkinson's disease and phytochemicals, major bioactive ingredients of herbs and plant food, modulate multiple pathogenic factors and exert neuroprotective effects in preclinical studies. This review presents mechanisms underlying neuroprotection of phytochemicals against neuronal cell death and α-synuclein toxicity in Parkinson's disease. Phytochemicals are antioxidants, maintain mitochondrial function and homeostasis, prevent intrinsic apoptosis and neuroinflammation, activate cellular signal pathways to induce anti-apoptotic and pro-survival genes, such as Bcl-2 protein family and neurotrophic factors, and promote cleavage of damaged mitochondria and α-synuclein aggregates. Phytochemicals prevent α-synuclein oligomerization and aggregation, and dissolve preformed α-synuclein aggregates. Novel neuroprotective agents are expected to develop based on the scaffold of phytochemicals permeable across the blood-brain-barrier, to increase the bioavailability, ameliorate brain dysfunction and prevent neurodegeneration.

Neuroprotective effect of green and roasted coffee bean extracts on cerebral ischemia-induced injury in rats

Stroke is a lethal event with a high incidence in Egypt. Quick early intervention can be lifesaving. Transient global ischemia (TGI), a type of ischemic stroke, is mainly instigated by cardiac arrest. Ischemia followed by reperfusion causes further neuronal cell damage. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the potential apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects of green (GCBE) and roasted (RCBE) coffee bean water extract against transient global ischemia-induced via a bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (CAO) in rats. Before CAO, 1.5 ml/kg body weight/day of GCBE or RCBE was administered for 14 days by oral gavage. Ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) and sham groups were treated with a vehicle. Oxidative stress biomarkers and antioxidant enzyme activities, such as MDA, NO, GSH, SOD, CAT, GR, GPx, inflammatory markers TNF-α, IL-1β, and NF-κB, and BDNF were investigated. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways, in addition to heme oxygenase 1, and nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 were determined. Apoptotic markers, including Bcl-2, Bax, and caspase 3, in addition to the vascular endothelial growth factor-a, were investigated, followed by an examination of hippocampal histopathology. Pre-administration of GCBE and RCBE improved neurological function and neuronal survival, suppressed the spread of oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis, and reversed most of the pathological changes. However, green coffee bean extract was more effective than roasted coffee bean extract, perhaps due to the roasting process, which may affect active compounds. In conclusion, GCBE and RCBE represent a potential clinical strategy for pre-ischemic conditioning.

Serum proBDNF Is Associated With Changes in the Ketone Body β-Hydroxybutyrate and Shows Superior Repeatability Over Mature BDNF: Secondary Outcomes From a Cross-Over Trial in Healthy Older Adults

Background: β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) can upregulate brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in mice, but little is known about the associations between BHB and BDNF in humans. The primary aim here was to investigate whether ketosis (i.e., raised BHB levels), induced by a ketogenic supplement, influences serum levels of mature BDNF (mBDNF) and its precursor proBDNF in healthy older adults. A secondary aim was to determine the intra-individual stability (repeatability) of those biomarkers, measured as intra-class correlation coefficients (ICC).

Method: Three of the arms in a 6-arm randomized cross-over trial were used for the current sub-study. Fifteen healthy volunteers, 65–75 y, 53% women, were tested once a week. Test oils, mixed in coffee and cream, were ingested after a 12-h fast. Labeled by their level of ketosis, the arms provided: sunflower oil (lowK); coconut oil (midK); caprylic acid + coconut oil (highK). Repeated blood samples were collected for 4 h after ingestion. Serum BDNF levels were analyzed for changes from baseline to 1, 2 and 4 h to compare the arms. Individual associations between BHB and BDNF were analyzed cross-sectionally and for a delayed response (changes in BHB 0–2 h to changes in BDNF at 0–4 h). ICC estimates were calculated from baseline levels from the three study days.

Results: proBDNF increased more in highK vs. lowK between 0 and 4 h (z-score: β = 0.25, 95% CI 0.07–0.44; p = 0.007). Individual change in BHB 0–2 h, predicted change in proBDNF 0–4 h, (β = 0.40, CI 0.12–0.67; p = 0.006). Change in mBDNF was lower in highK vs. lowK at 0–2 h (β = −0.88, CI −1.37 to −0.40; p < 0.001) and cumulatively 0–4 h (β = −1.01, CI −1.75 to −0.27; p = 0.01), but this could not be predicted by BHB levels. ICC was 0.96 (95% CI 0.92–0.99) for proBDNF, and 0.72 (CI 0.47–0.89) for mBDNF.

Conclusions: The findings support a link between changes in peripheral BHB and proBDNF in healthy older adults. For mBDNF, changes differed between arms but independent to BHB levels. Replication is warranted due to the small sample. Excellent repeatability encourages future investigations on proBDNF as a predictor of brain health.

Clinical Trial Registration:ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03904433.

Quantification of Major Bioactive Constituents, Antioxidant Activity, and Enzyme Inhibitory Effects of Whole Coffee Cherries (Coffea arabica) and Their Extracts

Coffee cherry is a rich source of chlorogenic acids (CGAs) and caffeine. In this study we examined the potential antioxidant activity and enzyme inhibitory effects of whole coffee cherries (WCC) and their two extracts on α-amylase, α-glucosidase and acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activities, which are targets for the control of diabetes and Alzheimer’s diseases. Whole coffee cherry extract 40% (WCCE1) is rich in chlorogenic acid compounds, consisting of a minimum of 40% major isomers, namely 3-caffeoylquinic acids, 4-caffeoylquinic acids, 5-caffeoylquinic acids, 3,4-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 3,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 4,5-dicaffeoylquinic acid, 4-feruloylquinc acid, and 5-feruloylquinc acid. Whole coffee cherry extract 70% (WCCE2) is rich in caffeine, with a minimum of 70%. WCCE1 inhibited the activities of digestive enzymes α-amylase and α-glucosidase, and WCCE2 inhibited acetylcholinesterase activities with their IC₅₀ values of 1.74, 2.42, and 0.09 mg/mL, respectively. Multiple antioxidant assays—including DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, ORAC, HORAC, NORAC, and SORAC—demonstrated that WCCE1 has strong antioxidant activity.

Green coffee: economic relevance and a systematic review of the effects on human health

Coffee is probably the most popular beverage after water and is an important component in diet and health since its consumption is high worldwide. Globally, it is the most relevant food commodity being just behind crude oil. Besides its pleasant flavor, it is an antioxidant source due to polyphenols, which are protective compounds against several diseases. This study aimed to evaluate the economic relevance and perform a systematic review of green coffee's effects on human health. Databases such as MEDLINE-PubMed, EMBASE, COCHRANE, and GOOGLE SCHOLAR were searched, and PRISMA guidelines were followed. Green coffee is considered a novel food product because consumers usually consume only roasted coffee. It can be marketed as such or as an extract. Due to the content of bioactive compounds, which are partially lost during the roasting process, the extracts are usually marketed concerning the potential regarding health effects. Green coffee can be used as dietary supplements, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals, as a source of antioxidants. It can benefit human health, such as improvement in blood pressure, plasma lipids, and body weight (thus contributing to the improvement of risk components of Metabolic Syndrome). Moreover, benefits for cognitive functions may also be included.

Natural Products for Neurodegeneration: Regulating Neurotrophic Signals

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) are heterogeneous groups of ailments typically characterized by progressive damage of the nervous system. Several drugs are used to treat NDs but they have only symptomatic benefits with various side effects. Numerous researches have been performed to prove the advantages of phytochemicals for the treatment of NDs. Furthermore, phytochemicals such as polyphenols might play a pivotal role in rescue from neurodegeneration due to their various effects as anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and antiamyloidogenic agents by controlling apoptotic factors, neurotrophic factors (NTFs), free radical scavenging system, and mitochondrial stress. On the other hand, neurotrophins (NTs) including nerve growth factor (NGF), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), NT4/5, and NT3 might have a crucial neuroprotective role, and their diminution triggers the development of the NDs. Polyphenols can interfere directly with intracellular signaling molecules to alter brain activity. Several natural products also improve the biosynthesis of endogenous genes encoding antiapoptotic Bcl-2 as well as NTFs such as glial cell and brain-derived NTFs. Various epidemiological studies have demonstrated that the initiation of these genes could play an essential role in the neuroprotective function of dietary compounds. Hence, targeting NTs might represent a promising approach for the management of NDs. In this review, we focus on the natural product-mediated neurotrophic signal-modulating cascades, which are involved in the neuroprotective effects.

Grape seed extract effects on hippocampal neurogenesis, synaptogenesis and dark neurons production in old mice. Can this extract improve learning and memory in aged animals?

BACKGROUND

During the elderly, hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptogenesis reduce and dark neurons (DNs) increase, leading to cognitive impairment. It is believed that natural products can protect the neural cells and system by protecting from damages or promoting regeneration. Therefore, the effects of grape seed extract (GSE) on the hippocampus of aged mice were investigated in this study.

METHODS

twelve old mice were divided into two groups of control and GSE. Animals in the GSE group received 300 mg/kg of GSE for eight weeks via gavage. At the end of treatment, cognition performance was evaluated by Morris water maze (MWM) and passive avoidance tests. Hippocampal neurogenesis, synaptogenesis and DNs production were evaluated with immunohistochemistry and histological evaluations on 5-micron coronal tissue sections.

RESULTS

The hippocampal mean number of double cortin positive cells (DCX⁺) per unit area, as well as synaptophysin expression in the GSE group, were significantly higher than the control group (p < 0.01). The frequency of DNs in the GSE group was lower than the control group (p < 0.05). Behavioral tests showed that GSE improves memory and learning performance.

CONCLUSION

Consuming GSE in the elderly can potentially alleviate the age-related reduction of hippocampal neurogenesis and synaptogenesis. It is also able to decrease hippocampal DNs production and increase memory and learning.

Neurophysiological Effects of Whole Coffee Cherry Extract in Older Adults with Subjective Cognitive Impairment: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Cross-Over Pilot Study

Bioactive plant-based compounds have shown promise as protective agents across multiple domains including improvements in neurological and psychological measures. Methodological challenges have limited our understanding of the neurophysiological changes associated with polyphenol-rich supplements such as whole coffee cherry extract (WCCE). In the current study, we (1) compared 100 mg of WCCE to a placebo using an acute, randomized, double-blind, within-subject, cross-over design, and we (2) conducted a phytochemical analysis of WCCE. The primary objective of the study was to determine the neurophysiological and behavioral changes that resulted from the acute administration of WCCE. We hypothesized that WCCE would increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glutamate levels while also increasing neurofunctional measures in cognitive brain regions. Furthermore, we expected there to be increased behavioral performance associated with WCCE, as measured by reaction time and accuracy. Participants underwent four neuroimaging scans (pre- and post-WCCE and placebo) to assess neurofunctional/metabolic outcomes using functional magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The results suggest that polyphenol-rich WCCE is associated with decreased reaction time and may protect against cognitive errors on tasks of working memory and response inhibition. Behavioral findings were concomitant with neurofunctional changes in structures involved in decision-making and attention. Specifically, we found increased functional connectivity between the anterior cingulate and regions involved in sensory and decision-making networks. Additionally, we observed increased BDNF and an increased glutamate/gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) ratio following WCCE administration. These results suggest that WCCE is associated with acute neurophysiological changes supportive of faster reaction times and increased, sustained attention.

The effects of six months Persicaria minor extract supplement among older adults with mild cognitive impairment: a double-blinded, randomized, and placebo-controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Persicaria minor extract exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has potential effects on cognitive function and mood. However, the effects of P.minor on brain activation and biomarkers have not been studied among older adults. This multicentre, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled study aimed to investigate the effect of 6 months P.minor extract supplement (Biokesum®) on cognition, mood, biomarkers, and brain activation among older adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI).

METHOD

A total of 36 Malaysian community-dwelling older adults with MCI (60-75-year-old) were randomized into Biokesum® (n = 18) and placebo group (n = 18). Each subject consumed one capsule of Biokesum® (250 mg/capsule) or placebo (maltodextrin, 280 mg/capsule) twice daily for 6 months. Cognitive function and mood were assessed at baseline, 3rd, and 6th-month using neuropsychological tests (MMSE, Digit Span, RAVLT, Digit Symbol, and Visual Reproduction) and Profile of Mood State (POMS) questionnaire. Blood lipid profile, fasting blood glucose, and biomarkers (MDA, LPO, COX-2, iNOS, and BDNF) were measured at baseline and 6th month. By the end of the intervention, there were 30 compliers (Biokesum®: N = 15; Placebo: N = 15) and 6 dropouts. For brain activation assessment, 15 subsamples (Biokesum®: N = 8; Placebo: N = 7) completed N-back and Stroop tasks during fMRI scanning at baseline and 6th month. The dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (Brodmann's area 9 and 46) was identified as a region of interest (ROI) for brain activation analysis using SPM software.

RESULTS

Two-way mixed ANOVA analysis showed significant improvements in Visual Reproduction II (p = 0.012, partial η2 = 0.470), tension (p = 0.042, partial η2 = 0.147), anger (p = 0.010, partial η2 = 0.207), confusion (p = 0.041, partial η2 = 0.148), total negative subscales (p = 0.043, partial η2 = 0.145), BDNF (p = 0.020, partial η2 = 0.179) and triglyceride (p = 0.029, partial η2 = 0.237) following 6 months of Biokesum® supplementation. Preliminary finding also demonstrated significant improvement at 0-back task-induced right DLPFC activation (p = 0.028, partial η2 = 0.652) among subsamples in Biokesum® group. No adverse events were reported at the end of the study.

CONCLUSION

Six months Biokesum® supplementation potentially improved visual memory, negative mood, BDNF, and triglyceride levels among older adults with MCI. Significant findings on brain activation at the right DPLFC must be considered as preliminary.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Retrospectively registered on 30th August 2019 [ ISRC TN12417552 ].

Cognitive short- and long-term effects of coffee cherry extract in older adults with mild cognitive decline

There has been increasing interest in food- and dietary supplement-based materials that may support healthy cognition. However, few studies have quantitatively measured bioavailability, bioactivity, or cognitive short- and long-term effects of these materials against placebo. Earlier clinical studies reported ability of coffee cherry extract (CCE) to a.) reduce levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in human blood and b.) to increase serum and exosomal levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a neuroprotein essential for neurogenesis. Here, we examined CCE influence on cognitive performance. Seventy-one adults with mild cognitive decline completed this double blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, 28-day regimen. Participants engaged in a cognitive challenge that involved working memory processes. Our results suggest that effects of CCE were notable during the first week and persisted throughout the study period. Specifically, participants on the CCE regimens had significant reductions in reaction time compared to placebo when comparing baseline to days 7 and 28 (p = 0.040, partial η²  = 0.130). A main effect of group was not identified for accuracy; however, strong trends were noted between the placebo group and two of the three CCE groups. These results suggest CCE, when taken in the morning or twice per day, is associated with improvements in reaction times and trends toward indications of improved accuracy. Although further research is required, these observations may be indicative of underlying processes such as increased processing speed, sustained attention, and/or focus.

The Gut Microbiota Links Dietary Polyphenols With Management of Psychiatric Mood Disorders

The pathophysiology of depression is multifactorial yet generally aggravated by stress and its associated physiological consequences. To effectively treat these diverse risk factors, a broad acting strategy is required and is has been suggested that gut-brain-axis signaling may play a pinnacle role in promoting resilience to several of these stress-induced changes including pathogenic load, inflammation, HPA-axis activation, oxidative stress and neurotransmitter imbalances. The gut microbiota also manages the bioaccessibility of phenolic metabolites from dietary polyphenols whose multiple beneficial properties have known therapeutic efficacy against depression. Although several potential therapeutic mechanisms of dietary polyphenols toward establishing cognitive resilience to neuropsychiatric disorders have been established, only a handful of studies have systematically identified how the interaction of the gut microbiota with dietary polyphenols can synergistically alleviate the biological signatures of depression. The current review investigates several of these potential mechanisms and how synbiotics, that combine probiotics with dietary polyphenols, may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for depression. In particular, synbiotics have the potential to alleviate neuroinflammation by modulating microglial and inflammasome activation, reduce oxidative stress and balance serotonin metabolism therefore simultaneously targeting several of the major pathological risk factors of depression. Overall, synbiotics may act as a novel therapeutic paradigm for neuropsychiatric disorders and further understanding the fundamental mechanisms of gut-brain-axis signaling will allow full utilization of the gut microbiota's as a therapeutic tool.

Serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor predicting reduction in pulse pressure after a one-hour rest in nurses working night shifts

Night shift work is associated with cardiovascular disease and central nervous system disorders in female nurses. Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) exerts protective effects on neural and endothelial functions. This study examined the association between serum BDNF levels and pulse pressure after rest in female nurses working night shifts. In this study, blood samples were collected for BDNF measurement after a night shift when nurses had been working night shifts for three continuous weeks. Blood pressure was assessed before and after a one-hour morning rest within a week of resuming the night shift after one month without any night shift work. The pulse pressure of nurses (n = 48, age 29 ± 5 years) was significantly reduced (from 43 ± 7 to 41 ± 6 mmHg, P = 0.003) after rest, and serum BDNF were significantly and inversely correlated with pulse pressure changes (r = −0.435, P = 0.002). Higher serum BDNF was an independent factor for greater reduction in pulse pressure (95%CI = −0.609 ‒ −0.174, P = 0.001). Using a receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, serum BDNF >20.6 ng/mL predicted a pulse pressure reduction after a one-hour rest (sensitivity 66.7%, specificity 77.8%). In conclusion, higher serum BDNF predicted greater recovery of pulse pressure after a one-hour rest in female nurses after night shift work.

Botanicals as Modulators of Neuroplasticity: Focus on BDNF

The involvement of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in different central nervous system (CNS) diseases suggests that this neurotrophin may represent an interesting and reliable therapeutic target. Accordingly, the search for new compounds, also from natural sources, able to modulate BDNF has been increasingly explored. The present review considers the literature on the effects of botanicals on BDNF. Botanicals considered were Bacopa monnieri (L.) Pennell, Coffea arabica L., Crocus sativus L., Eleutherococcus senticosus Maxim., Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze (green tea), Ginkgo biloba L., Hypericum perforatum L., Olea europaea L. (olive oil), Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer, Rhodiola rosea L., Salvia miltiorrhiza Bunge, Vitis vinifera L., Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, and Perilla frutescens (L.) Britton. The effect of the active principles responsible for the efficacy of the extracts is reviewed and discussed as well. The high number of articles published (more than one hundred manuscripts for 14 botanicals) supports the growing interest in the use of natural products as BDNF modulators. The studies reported strengthen the hypothesis that botanicals may be considered useful modulators of BDNF in CNS diseases, without high side effects. Further clinical studies are mandatory to confirm botanicals as preventive agents or as useful adjuvant to the pharmacological treatment.

Nutritional Factors Affecting Adult Neurogenesis and Cognitive Function

Adult neurogenesis, a complex process by which stem cells in the hippocampal brain region differentiate and proliferate into new neurons and other resident brain cells, is known to be affected by many intrinsic and extrinsic factors, including diet. Neurogenesis plays a critical role in neural plasticity, brain homeostasis, and maintenance in the central nervous system and is a crucial factor in preserving the cognitive function and repair of damaged brain cells affected by aging and brain disorders. Intrinsic factors such as aging, neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and brain injury, as well as lifestyle factors such as high-fat and high-sugar diets and alcohol and opioid addiction, negatively affect adult neurogenesis. Conversely, many dietary components such as curcumin, resveratrol, blueberry polyphenols, sulforaphane, salvionic acid, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), and diets enriched with polyphenols and PUFAs, as well as caloric restriction, physical exercise, and learning, have been shown to induce neurogenesis in adult brains. Although many of the underlying mechanisms by which nutrients and dietary factors affect adult neurogenesis have yet to be determined, nutritional approaches provide promising prospects to stimulate adult neurogenesis and combat neurodegenerative diseases and cognitive decline. In this review, we summarize the evidence supporting the role of nutritional factors in modifying adult neurogenesis and their potential to preserve cognitive function during aging.

Neurotrophic function of phytochemicals for neuroprotection in aging and neurodegenerative disorders: modulation of intracellular signaling and gene expression

Bioactive compounds in food and beverages have been reported to promote health and prevent age-associated decline in cognitive, motor and sensory activities, and emotional function. Phytochemicals, a ubiquitous class of plant secondary metabolites, protect neuronal cells by interaction with cellular activities, in addition to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory function. In aging and age-associated neurodegenerative disorders, phytochemicals protect neuronal cells by neurotrophic factor-mimic activity, in addition to suppression of apoptosis signaling in mitochondria. This review presents the cellular mechanisms underlying anti-apoptotic function and neurotrophic function of phytochemicals in the brain. Phytochemicals bind to receptors of neurotrophic factors, and also receptors for γ-aminobutyric acid, acetylcholine, serotonin, and glutamate and estrogen, and activate downstream signal pathways. Phytochemicals also directly intervene intracellular signaling molecules to modify the brain function. Finally, phytochemicals enhance the endogenous biosynthesis of genes coding anti-apoptotic Bcl-2 and neurotrophic factors, such as brain-derived and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor. The gene induction may play a major role in the neuroprotective function of dietary compounds shown by epidemiological studies. Quantitative measurement of neurotrophic factors induced by phytochemicals in the serum, cerebrospinal fluid, and other clinical samples is proposed as a surrogate assay method to evaluate the neuroprotective potency. Development of novel neuroprotective compounds is expected among compounds chemically synthesized from the brain-permeable basic structure of phytochemicals.

The potential effects of chlorogenic acid, the main phenolic components in coffee, on health: a comprehensive review of the literature

Chlorogenic acid (CGA), an important biologically active dietary polyphenol, is produced by certain plant species and is a major component of coffee. Reduction in the risk of a variety of diseases following CGA consumption has been mentioned in recent basic and clinical research studies. This systematic review discusses in vivo animal and human studies of the physiological and biochemical effects of chlorogenic acids (CGAs) on biomarkers of chronic disease. We searched PubMed, Embase, Amed and Scopus using the following search terms: ("chlorogenic acid" OR "green coffee bean extract") AND (human OR animal) (last performed on April 1st, 2015) for relevant literature on the in vivo effects of CGAs in animal and human models, including clinical trials on cardiovascular, metabolic, cancerogenic, neurological and other functions. After exclusion of editorials and letters, uncontrolled observations, duplicate and not relevant publications the remaining 94 studies have been reviewed. The biological properties of CGA in addition to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects have recently been reported. It is postulated that CGA is able to exert pivotal roles on glucose and lipid metabolism regulation and on the related disorders, e.g. diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD), obesity, cancer, and hepatic steatosis. The wide range of potential health benefits of CGA, including its anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity impacts, may provide a non-pharmacological and non-invasive approach for treatment or prevention of some chronic diseases. In this study, the effects of CGAs on different aspects of health by reviewing the related literatures have been discussed.