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Ginkgo biloba extract: cognitive enhancer or antistress buffer
Christopher P Ward1, Kacy Redd, Beverly M Williams
1Department of Psychology, The University of Southern Mississippi, Hattiesburg, MS 39406, USA.
Pharmacology, Biochemistry, and Behavior
|June 14, 2002
Summary
Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) may reduce stress and anxiety in aging mice. However, it did not improve cognitive function or affect CREB protein levels in the brain.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Ginkgo biloba extracts are known for antioxidant properties.
- Oxidative stress contributes to nervous system aging.
- EGb 761 is a standardized G. biloba extract.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of EGb 761 on aging mice.
- To assess EGb 761's potential as an antistress buffer.
- To evaluate EGb 761's impact on cognitive function and CREB protein.
Main Methods:
- Senescent male mice were treated with EGb 761 (100 mg/kg/day) for 82 days.
- Cognitive performance was assessed using the Morris water maze (MWM).
- Anxiety levels were measured with the elevated-plus maze (EPM); CREB protein levels were analyzed via Western blot.
Main Results:
- EGb 761 attenuated stress-induced anxiety in the EPM, supporting its antistress hypothesis.
- No significant differences in MWM performance (acquisition or retention) were observed.
- EGb 761 did not alter CREB protein immunoreactivity in the hippocampus or cortex.
Conclusions:
- EGb 761 demonstrates potential as an antistress agent in aging mice.
- The extract did not show benefits for cognitive function or CREB signaling in this model.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the mechanisms of EGb 761's antistress effects.