Unusual Bioactive Compounds with Antioxidant Properties in Adjuvant Therapy Supporting Cognition Impairment in Age-Related Neurodegenerative Disorders

Abstract

Cognitive function decline is strictly related to age, resulting in the loss of the ability to perform daily behaviors and is a fundamental clinical neurodegeneration symptom. It has been proven that an adequate diet, comprehensive nutrition, and a healthy lifestyle may significantly inhibit neurodegenerative processes, improving cognitive functions. Therefore, intensive research has been conducted on cognitive-enhancing treatment for many years, especially with substances of natural origin. There are several intervention programs aimed at improving cognitive functions in elderly adults. Cognitive functions depend on body weight, food consumed daily, the quality of the intestinal microflora, and the supplements used. The effectiveness in the prevention of dementia is particularly high before the onset of the first symptoms. The impact of diet and nutrition on age-associated cognitive decline is becoming a growing field as a vital factor that may be easily modified, and the effects may be observed on an ongoing basis. The paper presents a review of the latest preclinical and clinical studies on the influence of natural antioxidants on cognitive functions, with particular emphasis on neurodegenerative diseases. Nevertheless, despite the promising research results in animal models, the clinical application of natural compounds will only be possible after solving a few challenges.

Oxidative stress, the blood–brain barrier and neurodegenerative diseases: The critical beneficial role of dietary antioxidants

“…Due to the susceptibility of the CNS to oxidative stress and the important role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of NDs 53 , delaying or preventing the degeneration of nerve cells by clearing ROS or preventing its formation has become one of the promising strategies for the prevention and treatment of NDs. In recent years, research studies have found that natural antioxidants in fruits, vegetables, edible flowers and tea have obvious antioxidant effects and low adverse effects, as well as preventive and protective effects on NDs and other diseases 54 . These dietary antioxidant suplements not only reduce the harmful activities of ROS and oxidative stress but also promote the regenerative capacity of the adult human brain 55 .…”

Exploring the Therapeutic Potential of Phytochemicals in Alzheimer’s Disease: Focus on Polyphenols and Monoterpenes

“…Flavonoids, the most diffuse phenolic compounds, are attracting growing attention for their multiple benefits. Indeed, many studies have correlated flavonoid intake with the improvement of cognition, attenuation of neuroinflammation and oxidative stress ( Cichon et al, 2021 ). Although there is still uncertainty about their pharmacokinetics properties, flavonoids and other polyphenols are currently investigated as possible therapeutic agents in the AD treatment.…”

Transcriptomics and biochemical evidence of trigonelline ameliorating learning and memory decline in the senescence-accelerated mouse prone 8 (SAMP8) model by suppressing proinflammatory cytokines and elevating neurotransmitter release

“…In recent years, there has been growing evidence that certain functional foods, beverages, and natural bioactive compounds possess neuroprotective properties and can effectively slow the progression of brain aging [ 10 , 11 ]. These compounds have demonstrated various benefits, including reduction of neuroinflammation, restoration of neurotransmitter balance, and promotion of neuronal differentiation, all while exhibiting minimal adverse effects [ 12 , 13 ].…”