Pomegranate: A Source of Multifunctional Bioactive Compounds Potentially Beneficial in Alzheimer's Disease

Neuroprotective, Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Greek Pomegranate Seed Oil on N2a Neuroblastoma Cells and Mild Cognitive Impairment Patients

Alzheimer's disease (AD) remains a significant global health challenge with limited FDA-approved treatments, necessitating the search for novel preventive strategies. Antioxidants that are present in fruits and vegetables have garnered attention due to their potential neuroprotective effects. Among these, pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) has emerged as a promising source of neuroprotective antioxidants as it is rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and hydrolysable tannins. Pomegranate seed oil (PSO) is a source of bioactive compounds that may modulate key pathological processes of AD. This study investigated the therapeutic potential of PSO in murine neuroblastoma N2a cells treated with lipopolysaccharide (LPS) to simulate AD-like inflammation. The effects of PSO on inflammation and oxidative stress markers, including TNF-α, iNOS, SOD1, and IL1β, were evaluated, along with changes in AD-related biomarkers Aβ42, Aβ40, and p-tau181. Additionally, the study extended its findings to clinical settings by assessing the impact of supervised PSO consumption for 12 months on similar biomarkers in patients with mild cognitive impairment. Results from this integrative approach demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of PSO, supporting its role in modulating AD-associated pathophysiology. These findings suggest that PSO may serve as an early-stage intervention to delay or mitigate AD progression, highlighting its therapeutic potential in preclinical and clinical contexts.

Pharmacological Potential of Bioactive Peptides for the Treatment of Diseases Associated with Alzheimer's and Brain Disorders

Bioactive peptides are a promising class of therapeutics for the treatment of diseases associated with Alzheimer's and brain disorders. These peptides are derived from naturally occurring proteins and have been shown to possess a variety of beneficial properties. They may modulate neurotransmitter systems, reduce inflammation, and improve cognitive performance. In addition, bioactive peptides have the potential to target specific molecular pathways involved in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's and brain disorders. For example, peptides have been shown to interact with amyloid-beta, a major component of amyloid plaques found in Alzheimer's disease, and have been shown to reduce its accumulation in the brain. Furthermore, peptides have been found to modulate the activity of glutamate receptors, which are important for memory and learning, as well as to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in the formation of toxic amyloid-beta aggregates. Finally, bioactive peptides have the potential to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, two major components of many neurological disorders. These peptides could be used alone or in combination with traditional pharmacological treatments to improve the management of diseases associated with Alzheimer's and brain disorders.