Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jul 03, 2024 4 months, 2 weeks, 4 days, 8 hours, 45 minutes ago
Herbs And Phytochemicals: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a well-known and feared condition, particularly affecting the elderly. Characterized by memory loss and cognitive decline, it poses a significant challenge to patients and their families. However, a recent
Herbs And Phytochemicals study by researchers from Taiwan has uncovered a surprising ally in the fight against this debilitating disease: the humble Basella alba, commonly known as creeping spinach or Malabar spinach.
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Creeping Spinach - A Natural Ally Against Alzheimer’s
Understanding Alzheimer's Disease
To understand the significance of this discovery, it’s essential to know a bit about Alzheimer’s disease. AD is marked by the buildup of amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques in the brain. These plaques disrupt communication between neurons, leading to cell damage and death. As neurons die, brain regions involved in memory, thinking, and reasoning shrink, causing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.
The Role of Amyloid-Beta in Alzheimer's
Among the various forms of amyloid-beta peptides, the Aβ25-35 fragment is particularly toxic. It induces oxidative stress, disrupts mitochondrial function, and triggers inflammatory responses in the brain. These factors contribute to the progression of Alzheimer’s, making the search for effective treatments crucial.
Basella Alba: More Than Just a Vegetable
Basella alba, often found in tropical and subtropical regions, is not only a culinary delight but also a medicinal plant. Traditionally, it has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Researchers have now turned their attention to its polysaccharides (complex sugars) to see if they could offer neuroprotective benefits.
The Experiment: Protecting Neurons
Scientists conducted an experiment to explore the potential of Basella alba polysaccharides (referred to as PPV-6) in protecting neurons. They used rat cortical neurons (brain cells) exposed to Aβ25-35 to mimic the conditions of Alzheimer's. Typically, Aβ25-35 reduces cell viability, damages neuron structures, and impairs mitochondrial function - the cell's powerhouse.
Findings: Neurons Fight Back
The results were promising. PPV-6 not only improved cell viability but also restored the structural integrity and function of the neurons. The polysaccharides helped the neurons maintain their structure and prevented the mitochondrial damage typically caused by Aβ25-35.
Cell Cycle Re-Entry: A Dangerous Path
One of the dangers posed by amyloid-beta peptides is forcing neurons to re-enter the cell cycle - a process normally halted in mature neurons. This re-entry leads to cell death. PPV-6 was able to suppress this cell cycle re-entry, protecting the neurons from death.
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The Sonic Hedgehog Connection
The researchers also explored a molecule called Sonic Hedgehog (SHH), which is involved in the development of the nervous system. Aβ25-35 was found to increase SHH expression, leading to cell cycle re-entry and neuron death. However, PPV-6 effectively blocked this increase in SHH, further protecting the neurons.
Restoring Mitochondrial Function
Mitochondria are crucial for cell survival, and their dysfunction is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's. The study found that PPV-6 helped restore normal mitochondrial function in neurons exposed to Aβ25-35. This restoration is critical as it helps cells maintain energy production and reduces the risk of cell death.
Implications for Alzheimer's Treatment
These findings suggest that polysaccharides from Basella alba could offer a new, natural approach to protecting brain cells from the damage caused by amyloid-beta peptides. This could potentially lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Exploring Further Applications
The discovery of PPV-6’s neuroprotective effects against amyloid-beta toxicity is just the beginning. Scientists are also interested in exploring other potential applications of Basella alba polysaccharides. For instance, their anti-inflammatory properties could be beneficial in treating other neurodegenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis.
The Broader Impact of Natural Compounds
This research is part of a broader trend of exploring natural compounds for medical purposes. Plants have been a source of medicine for centuries, and modern science is beginning to uncover the mechanisms behind their healing properties. The study on Basella alba is a testament to the potential that lies within natural substances.
Call to Action: Supporting Further Research
The promising results of this study highlight the need for further research. Supporting scientific investigations into natural compounds can lead to breakthroughs that offer new hope for patients. Public and private funding, along with collaborative efforts among scientists, can accelerate the discovery of effective treatments for Alzheimer’s and other diseases.
Conclusion: A Promising Future
In conclusion, the humble creeping spinach might hold the key to new therapeutic strategies in the battle against Alzheimer’s, offering hope to millions affected by this devastating condition. The journey from a common vegetable to a potential medical breakthrough is a fascinating one, reminding us of the vast potential that nature holds. By continuing to explore and understand these natural compounds, we can pave the way for innovative treatments that improve the quality of life for many.
The study findings were published in the peer reviewed International Journal of Molecular Sciences.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/13/7316
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