Dec. 11, 2015
The team applied apigenin to human stem cells - cells that have the ability to develop into different cell types - in a laboratory dish.
They found that after 25 days, these stem cells transformed into neurons - an effect the researchers say was not seen in the absence of apigenin.
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| The team found apigenin-treated neurons (right) developed stronger synapses than untreated neurons (left). Image credit: Rehen et al. |
What is more, the researchers found the connections that developed between the newly formed neurons - known as synapses - were stronger and more sophisticated. "Strong connections between neurons are crucial for good brain function, memory consolidation and learning," notes Rehen.
Further investigation revealed that apigenin boosts neuron formation and connections by binding to estrogen receptors (ERs), which influences the development, progression, function and plasticity of the nervous system.
While studies have shown the hormone estrogen may delay development of Alzheimer's, schizophrenia, depression and Parkinson's, among other neurodegenerative conditions, Rehen and colleagues note the use of estrogen therapy is hampered by the risks of tumor growth and cardiovascular problems it poses.
However, the team says their findings suggest apigenin could offer a promising future treatment alternative for a number of neurodegenerative disorders.
"An alternative approach would be to mimic estrogenic-mediated positive effects by modulating specific ERs with other estrogenic compounds, such as some flavonoids classified as selective ER modulators (SERMs)," they explain.
In addition, Rehen says their study suggests the possibility of a simple brain-boosting strategy we can all adopt:
Flavonoids are present at high amounts in some foods and we can speculate that
a diet rich in flavonoids may influence the formation of neurons and the
way
they communicate within the brain."
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/303977.php?tw
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