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Shin MS, Lee Y, Cho IH, Yang HJ. Brain plasticity and ginseng. J Ginseng Res 2024; 48:286-297. [PMID: 38707640 PMCID: PMC11069001 DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2024.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/21/2024] [Indexed: 05/07/2024] Open
Abstract
Brain plasticity refers to the brain's ability to modify its structure, accompanied by its functional changes. It is influenced by learning, experiences, and dietary factors, even in later life. Accumulated researches have indicated that ginseng may protect the brain and enhance its function in pathological conditions. There is a compelling need for a more comprehensive understanding of ginseng's role in the physiological condition because many individuals without specific diseases seek to improve their health by incorporating ginseng into their routines. This review aims to deepen our understanding of how ginseng affects brain plasticity of people undergoing normal aging process. We provided a summary of studies that reported the impact of ginseng on brain plasticity and related factors in human clinical studies. Furthermore, we explored researches focused on the molecular mechanisms underpinning the influence of ginseng on brain plasticity and factors contributing to brain plasticity. Evidences indicate that ginseng has the potential to enhance brain plasticity in the context of normal aging by mediating both central and peripheral systems, thereby expecting to improve age-related declines in brain function. Moreover, given modern western diet can damage neuroplasticity in the long term, ginseng can be a beneficial supplement for better brain health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myoung-Sook Shin
- College of Korean Medicine, Gachon University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - YoungJoo Lee
- Department of Integrative Bioscience and Biotechnology, College of Life Science, Sejong University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Ik-Hyun Cho
- Department of Convergence Medical Science, College of Korean Medicine, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyun-Jeong Yang
- Department of Integrative Bioscience, University of Brain Education, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
- Department of Integrative Healthcare, University of Brain Education, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
- Korea Institute of Brain Science, Seoul, Republic of Korea
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Yan L, Li H, Qian Y, Liu Q, Cong S, Dou B, Wang Y, Wang M, Yu T. Acupuncture modulates the gut microbiota in Alzheimer's disease: current evidence, challenges, and future opportunities. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1334735. [PMID: 38495110 PMCID: PMC10940355 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1334735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 02/19/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease, one of the most severe and common neurodegenerative diseases, has no effective cure. Therefore it is crucial to explore novel and effective therapeutic targets. The gut microbiota - brain axis has been found to play a role in Alzheimer's disease by regulating the neuro-immune and endocrine systems. At the same time, acupuncture can modulate the gut microbiota and may impact the course of Alzheimer's disease. In this Review, we discuss recent studies on the role of acupuncture on the gut microbiota as well current challenges and future opportunities of acupuncture as potential treatment for the prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Long Yan
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Hong Li
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yulin Qian
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Qidi Liu
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Shan Cong
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Baomin Dou
- National Clinical Research Center for Acupuncture and Moxibustion, Tianjin, China
| | - Yu Wang
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Meng Wang
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
| | - Tao Yu
- The First Teaching Hospital of Tianjin University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tianjin, China
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Li Y, Wu M, Kong M, Sui S, Wang Q, He Y, Gu J. Impact of Donepezil Supplementation on Alzheimer's Disease-like Pathology and Gut Microbiome in APP/PS1 Mice. Microorganisms 2023; 11:2306. [PMID: 37764150 PMCID: PMC10537997 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11092306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on published information, the occurrence and development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are potentially related to gut microbiota changes. Donepezil hydrochloride (DH), which enhances cholinergic activity by blocking acetylcholinesterase (AChE), is one of the first-line drugs for AD treatment approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the USA. However, the potential link between the effects of DH on the pathophysiological processes of AD and the gut microbiota remains unclear. In this study, pathological changes in the brain and colon, the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and AChE, and changes in intestinal flora were observed. The results showed that Aβ deposition in the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus of AD mice was significantly decreased, while colonic inflammation was significantly alleviated by DH treatment. Concomitantly, SOD activity was significantly improved, while AChE was significantly reduced after DH administration. In addition, the gut microbiota community composition of AD mice was significantly altered after DH treatment. The relative abundance of Akkermansia in the AD group was 54.8% higher than that in the N group. The relative abundance of Akkermansia was increased by 18.3% and 53.8% in the AD_G group and the N_G group, respectively. Interestingly, Akkermansia showed a potential predictive value and might be a biomarker for AD. Molecular docking revealed the binding mode and major forces between DH and membrane proteins of Akkermansia. The overall results suggest a novel therapeutic mechanism for treating AD and highlight the critical role of gut microbiota in AD pathology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Li
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China; (Y.L.); (M.W.); (M.K.)
| | - Mengyao Wu
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China; (Y.L.); (M.W.); (M.K.)
| | - Mengmeng Kong
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China; (Y.L.); (M.W.); (M.K.)
| | - Shaomei Sui
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China; (S.S.); (Q.W.)
| | - Qi Wang
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China; (S.S.); (Q.W.)
| | - Yan He
- Department of Neurology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Shandong First Medical University & Shandong Provincial Qianfoshan Hospital, Jinan 250014, China; (S.S.); (Q.W.)
| | - Jinsong Gu
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China; (Y.L.); (M.W.); (M.K.)
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Abstract
The multifaceted microbiota characterizing our gut plays a crucial role in maintaining immune, metabolic and tissue homeostasis of the intestine as well as of distal organs, including the central nervous system. Microbial dysbiosis is reported in several inflammatory intestinal diseases characterized by the impairment of the gut epithelial and vascular barriers, defined as leaky gut, and it is reported as a potential danger condition associated with the development of metabolic, inflammatory and neurodegenerative diseases. Recently, we pointed out the strict connection between the gut and the brain via a novel vascular axis. Here we want to deepen our knowledge on the gut-brain axis, with particular emphasis on the connection between microbial dysbiosis, leaky gut, cerebral and gut vascular barriers, and neurodegenerative diseases. The firm association between microbial dysbiosis and impairment of the vascular gut-brain axis will be summarized in the context of protection, amelioration or boosting of Alzheimer, Parkinson, Major depressive and Anxiety disorders. Understanding the relationship between disease pathophysiology, mucosal barrier function and host-microbe interaction will foster the use of the microbiome as biomarker for health and disease as well as a target for therapeutic and nutritional advances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Carloni
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini, 20072 Pieve Emanuele, MI, Italy; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI, Italy.
| | - Maria Rescigno
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Humanitas University, Via Rita Levi Montalcini, 20072 Pieve Emanuele, MI, Italy; IRCCS Humanitas Research Hospital, Via Manzoni 56, 20089 Rozzano, MI, Italy.
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Wang Z, Zhang Z, Liu J, Guo M, Li H. Panax Ginseng in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia. J Ginseng Res 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jgr.2023.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023] Open
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Nguyen NM, Cho J, Lee C. Gut Microbiota and Alzheimer's Disease: How to Study and Apply Their Relationship. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24044047. [PMID: 36835459 PMCID: PMC9958597 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24044047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Gut microbiota (GM), the microorganisms in the gastrointestinal tract, contribute to the regulation of brain homeostasis through bidirectional communication between the gut and the brain. GM disturbance has been discovered to be related to various neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). Recently, the microbiota-gut-brain axis (MGBA) has emerged as an enticing subject not only to understand AD pathology but also to provide novel therapeutic strategies for AD. In this review, the general concept of the MGBA and its impacts on the development and progression of AD are described. Then, diverse experimental approaches for studying the roles of GM in AD pathogenesis are presented. Finally, the MGBA-based therapeutic strategies for AD are discussed. This review provides concise guidance for those who wish to obtain a conceptual and methodological understanding of the GM and AD relationship with an emphasis on its practical application.
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Gao L, Xia X, Shuai Y, Zhang H, Jin W, Zhang X, Zhang Y. Gut microbiota, a hidden protagonist of traditional Chinese medicine for acute ischemic stroke. Front Pharmacol 2023; 14:1164150. [PMID: 37124192 PMCID: PMC10133705 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1164150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Acute ischemic stroke (AIS) is one of the leading diseases causing death and disability worldwide, and treatment options remain very limited. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been used for thousands of years to treat ischemic stroke and has been proven to have significant efficacy, but its mechanism of action is still unclear. As research related to the brain-gut-microbe axis progresses, there is increasing evidence that the gut microbiota plays an important role during AIS. The interaction between TCM and the gut microbiota has been suggested as a possible key link to the therapeutic effects of TCM. We have compiled and reviewed recent studies on the relationship between AIS, TCM, and gut microbiota, with the expectation of providing more ideas to elucidate the mechanism of action of TCM in the treatment of AIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Gao
- Emergency Department, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiuwen Xia
- School of Basic Medical Sciences, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yinqi Shuai
- Emergency Department, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- School of Clinical Medicine, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Emergency Department, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Wei Jin
- Emergency Department, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Xiaoyun Zhang
- Emergency Department, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Zhang, ; Xiaoyun Zhang,
| | - Yi Zhang
- Geriatric Department, Chengdu University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Affiliated Hospital, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- *Correspondence: Yi Zhang, ; Xiaoyun Zhang,
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Abdelghany AK, El-Nahass ES, Ibrahim MA, El-Kashlan AM, Emeash HH, Khalil F. Neuroprotective role of medicinal plant extracts evaluated in a scopolamine-induced rat model of Alzheimer's disease. Biomarkers 2022; 27:773-783. [PMID: 35950787 DOI: 10.1080/1354750x.2022.2112975] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
BackgroundAlzheimer's disease is a debilitating neurological brain disease with memory impairment among the first signs. Scopolamine (SCO), a muscarinic receptor antagonist that disrupts cognition and memory acquisition, is considered a psychopharmacological AD model. We investigate the effectiveness of medicinal plants in mitigating the SCO-induced neurobehavioural damage in rats.Materials and MethodsAnimals were injected with Scopolamine hydrobromide trihydrate (2.2 mg/kg IP.) daily for 2 months. Each treatment group was administered one of four medicinal spice extracts (Nigella sativa, 400 mg/kg; rosemary, 200 mg/kg; sage, 600 mg/kg and ginseng;200 mg/kg 90 minutes after SCO injection. Animals were subjected to cognitive-behavioral tests (NOR, Y-maze, and MWM). After the experiment, we extracted the brains for histopathological examination and biochemical assessment for oxidative stress (levels of TT, CAT and TBARS) and gene expression of acetylcholinesterase and brain monoamines.ResultsAs expected, SCO treatment impaired memory and cognition, increased oxidative stress, decreased neurotransmitters, and caused severe neurodegenerative changes in the brain.ConclusionSurprisingly, these effects were measurably moderated by the administration of all four plant extracts, indicating a neuroprotective action that we suggest could alleviate AD disease manifestations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asmaa K Abdelghany
- Animal and Poultry Management and Wealth Development Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511, Egypt
| | - El-Shymaa El-Nahass
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511, Egypt
| | - Marwa A Ibrahim
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University
| | - Akram M El-Kashlan
- Biochemistry Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Sadat City, Monufia, Egypt
| | - H H Emeash
- Animal and Poultry Management and Wealth Development Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511, Egypt
| | - Fatma Khalil
- Animal and Poultry Management and Wealth Development Department, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, 62511, Egypt
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