Wednesday 22 November 2023

Brewing Smarter: Scientists Discover a Secret Brain Booster in Coffee

By U. OF TSUKUBA Nov. 21, 2023


A new study found that Trigonelline (TG), a natural compound in coffee and some vegetables, significantly enhances spatial learning and memory in aged mice. The research indicates that TG modifies key molecular pathways and reduces neuroinflammation, highlighting its potential in addressing age-related cognitive decline.

Recent research has increasingly focused on finding natural compounds that can counteract age-related cognitive decline and promote healthy aging. Trigonelline (TG), a plant alkaloid found in coffee, fenugreek seeds, and radish, has been suggested as a candidate for enhancing cognitive abilities.

In a new study, researchers led by the University of Tsukuba investigated the effects of TG on memory and spatial learning (acquiring, retaining, structuring, and applying information related to the surrounding physical environment) from both a cognitive and molecular biology perspective in an integrated manner using a senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model.

Study Findings

Following oral administration of TG to SAMP8 mice for 30 days, the Morris water maze test indicated a significant improvement in spatial learning and memory performance compared with SAMP8 mice that did not receive TG.

Next, the researchers performed whole-genome transcriptomic analysis of the hippocampus to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. They found that signaling pathways related to nervous system development, mitochondrial function, ATP synthesis, inflammation, autophagy, and neurotransmitter release were significantly modulated in the TG group.

Molecular Insights and Conclusions

Furthermore, the research team found that TG suppressed neuroinflammation by negatively regulating the signaling factor Traf6-mediated activation of the transcription factor NF-κB.

Additionally, quantitative protein analysis confirmed that the levels of inflammatory cytokines TNF-α and IL-6 were significantly decreased and the levels of neurotransmitters dopamine, noradrenaline, and serotonin were significantly increased in the hippocampus.

These findings suggest the efficacy of TG in preventing and improving age-related spatial learning memory impairment.


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