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Polygonum multiflorum extracts improve cognitive performance in senescence accelerated mice.
Yin-Ching Chan1, Ming-Fu Wang, Hsiu-Ching Chang
1Department of Food and Nutrition, Providence University, Taichung, Taiwan. ycchan@pu.edu.tw
The American Journal of Chinese Medicine
|July 15, 2003
Summary
Polygonum multiflorum (PM) extracts significantly improved learning and memory in aging mice. PM supplementation reduced brain degeneration and oxidative stress, suggesting potential benefits for cognitive health.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Accelerated aging models like SAMP8 mice are crucial for studying age-related cognitive decline.
- Oxidative stress and brain degeneration are key factors contributing to memory impairment in aging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of Polygonum multiflorum (PM) Thunb. extracts on learning and memory in senescence accelerated mice (SAMP8).
- To assess the effects of PM on brain degeneration and oxidative status in aging mice.
Main Methods:
- Male SAMP8 mice (1 and 7 months old) were fed either a casein diet (control) or a casein diet supplemented with PM extracts for 18 weeks.
- Learning and memory were assessed using the active shuttle avoidance test.
- Brain tissue analysis included measurements of spongy degeneration, lipofuscin, malondialdehyde (MDA), and total thiol levels.
Main Results:
- PM extract supplementation significantly enhanced learning and memory abilities in both age groups compared to controls.
- Mice receiving PM showed reduced spongy degeneration, lower lipofuscin, and MDA concentrations in the brain.
- Total thiol levels, an indicator of antioxidant capacity, were higher in PM-fed mice, though not significantly different.
Conclusions:
- Polygonum multiflorum (PM) extracts demonstrate efficacy in improving cognitive function and mitigating brain pathology in aging mice.
- The neuroprotective effects of PM are likely attributed to its antioxidant phytochemicals, which combat oxidative stress and cellular damage.
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