Improving Cognition with Nutraceuticals Targeting TGF-β1 Signaling
Margherita Grasso1,2, Giuseppe Caruso1, Justyna Godos3
1Department of Drug and Health Sciences, University of Catania, 95125 Catania, Italy.
Antioxidants (Basel, Switzerland)
|August 6, 2021
Summary
Nutraceuticals like flavonoids and carnosine show promise in improving cognitive function by targeting the TGF-β1 pathway. Novel formulations enhance their bioavailability, offering a new approach for Alzheimer
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Cognitive decline in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a significant unmet medical need.
- Nutraceuticals, natural compounds with therapeutic potential, offer a promising avenue for cognitive enhancement.
- Dysregulation of the transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) pathway is implicated in the pathophysiology of cognitive impairment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evidence supporting nutraceuticals' ability to modulate the TGF-β1 pathway and improve cognitive function.
- To explore the potential of specific nutraceuticals, including flavonoids, omega-3 fatty acids, and carnosine, in treating cognitive deficits.
- To discuss novel formulation strategies for enhancing nutraceutical bioavailability and efficacy.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies investigating nutraceuticals and their effects on cognitive function and TGF-β1 signaling.
- Analysis of molecular mechanisms by which nutraceuticals influence synaptic plasticity and cognitive deficits.
- Examination of advanced delivery systems for improving the bioavailability of compounds like carnosine.
Main Results:
- Several nutraceuticals, including Hypericum perforatum, hesperidin, omega-3, and carnosine, demonstrate the ability to target TGF-β1 signaling.
- These compounds can increase TGF-β1 production in the central nervous system, potentially rescuing cognitive function.
- Nanoparticulate systems and nanoliposomes can significantly enhance the bioavailability and stability of carnosine.
Conclusions:
- Nutraceuticals targeting the TGF-β1 pathway represent a potential therapeutic strategy for cognitive impairment.
- The combination of nutraceuticals with existing treatments may offer a synergistic approach to reverting cognitive deficits in AD.
- Further research into novel formulations can optimize the efficacy of nutraceutical interventions for neurodegenerative disorders.
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