Compounds showing early potential for treating Parkinson’s disease also exhibit neuroprotective properties in mice, according to researchers from the University of Alabama.
The collaboration with scientists at Oregon Health and Science University may pave the way for preventive therapies and treatments for Parkinson’s in humans.
Led by Lukasz Ciesla, PhD, and Dr. Urmila Maitra, the team discovered that Garden A, a flavonoid from everyday South Asian plants, alleviated both cognitive and motor symptoms associated with Parkinson’s.
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The buzz behind flavonoids
This research builds on earlier studies examining various flavonoids—plant compounds linked to health benefits. The UA team utilized tissue samples from Oregon Health and Science University to further explore these compounds’ potential against diseases like Parkinson’s.
“A few years back, we learned certain diets could lower the risk of Parkinson’s and similar conditions,” Ciesla noted. “Flavonoids were a big part of those findings, yet I wasn’t exactly sure why they worked.”
While several flavonoids showed benefits in fruit fly experiments, Garden A stood out. The mice study confirmed that the neuroprotective effects extend to more complex brains, providing valuable insights.
Genetic and environmental causes
This latest study employed genetic models instead of toxin-based ones commonly used before, showing promising results in both scenarios. This is significant since both genetic and environmental contributors relate to the onset of Parkinson’s in humans.
Health experts highlight that these factors are intertwined; for instance, two individuals might share exposure to toxins, yet only one develops the disease due to genetic predisposition.
“We refer to this as a genetic environment interaction,” Ciesla explained.
Ciesla intends to explore Garden A’s effects on other neurodegenerative disorders, like Lewy Body Dementia, particularly for its impact on memory-related issues.
Motion and memory improvements
“When discussing Parkinson’s, the focus tends to be on motor issues,” Ciesla remarked. “However, this molecule not only enhances mouse mobility but also boosts memory.”
Garden A appears to not merely halt or slow the progression of Parkinson’s symptoms but actually improve them.
Ciesla hasn’t encountered existing Parkinson’s treatments that enhance both motor and cognitive functions.
Previous research on flavonoids frequently concentrated on their antioxidant effects, but it seems that isn’t entirely how they function, Ciesla noted.
In their fruit fly studies, differences emerged between Garden A and Garden B. Both exhibited antioxidant qualities, yet only Garden A demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties and neuroprotection.
“These molecules effectively address neuroinflammation,” Ciesla pointed out. The studies indicated Garden A’s neuroprotective benefits, whereas Garden B lacked them, hinting that reducing neuroinflammatory markers might be a mechanism of action.
Ciesla views this as a critical advancement in understanding how to utilize nature’s solutions to unravel long-standing mysteries.
This story originally appeared on the University of Alabama website.
