Phytochemicals May Aid Neurological Disorder Treatment by Impacting Gut-Brain Axis: Study
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In a recent study published in the journal Current Developments in Nutrition, researchers explored the potential therapeutic implications of phytochemicals on the gut-brain axis (GBA).
The gut-brain axis (GBA) connects the enteric and central nervous systems through neurological, immunological, and hormonal pathways. Changes in gut microbiota and their metabolites are linked to neurological disorders like anxiety, autism, depression, migraine, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson's disease.
Dietary polyphenols like curcumin, coumarins, cinnamic acid, lignans, and flavonoids can modulate gut microbiota and improve blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability. Gut microbiota enzymes transform polyphenols into smaller compounds with better absorption.
Phytochemicals can regulate the GBA by interacting with the immune system, neurotransmitters, and gut microbiota, potentially improving brain function. Certain evidence suggests that phytochemicals might be an effective treatment for neurological disorders.
In a study, mice with Alzheimer's disease showed better memory and learning after three months of apigenin treatment. It also improved the processing of amyloid precursor protein and reduced the buildup of amyloid-beta (Aβ).
Ginsenoside Rg1, from ginseng, was found to protect dopamine neurons, improve behavior, and prevent structural damage in a brain area affected by Parkinson's disease.
Resveratrol, another natural compound, has anti-inflammatory and anti-aging effects. It helps with metabolic and central nervous system disorders like obesity, dementia, depression, and diabetes.
In a mouse model of irritable bowel syndrome, resveratrol reduced anxiety, depressive behaviors, visceral pain, and improved gut function when given before stress.
The study highlighted how plant-based compounds, known as phytochemicals, can help treat neurological disorders by affecting the gut-brain axis (GBA). Phytochemicals can improve brain function and reduce neurological symptoms by changing the gut microbiota's composition and function.
Additionally, people may respond differently to phytochemicals due to factors like their environment, lifestyle, and genetics. Therefore, more research is needed to fully understand how best to use phytochemicals to treat neurological disorders.
Reference: Rahimi Jaberi K, Alamdari-palangi V, Savardashtaki A, et al. Modulatory effects of phytochemicals on gut-brain axis: therapeutic implication. Current Developments in Nutrition, 2024, DOI: 10.1016/j.cdnut.2024.103785, https://cdn.nutrition.org/article/S2475-2991(24)01719-0/fulltext
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