Flavonoids and cognition: the molecular mechanisms underlying their behavioural effects.
Evidence suggests that a group of phytochemicals known as flavonoids are highly effective in reversing age-related declines in neuro-cognitive performance through their ability to interact with the cellular and molecular architecture of the brain responsible for memory and by reducing neuronal loss due to neurodegenerative processes. In particular, they may increase the number of, and strength of, connections between neurons, via their specific interactions with the ERK and Akt signalling pathways, leading to an increase in neurotrophins such as BDNF. Concurrently, their effects on the peripheral and cerebral vascular system may also lead to enhancements in cognitive performance through increased brain blood flow and an ability to initiate neurogenesis in the hippocampus. Finally, they have also been shown to reduce neuronal damage and losses induced by various neurotoxic species and neuroinflammation. Together, these processes act to maintain the number and quality of synaptic connections in the brain, a factor known to be essential for efficient LTP, synaptic plasticity and ultimately the efficient working of memory.
Spencer
Jeremy P E
JP
Molecular Nutrition Group, Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences, School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy, University of Reading, Reading RG66AP, UK. j.p.e.spencer@reading.ac.uk
Vauzour
David
D
Rendeiro
Catarina
C
D000818:Animals; D001522:Behavior, Animal / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D003071:Cognition / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D005419:Flavonoids / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D006624:Hippocampus / Q000098:blood supply / Q000737:chemistry / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D055495:Neurogenesis / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage / Q000737:chemistry / Q000378:metabolism / Q000494:pharmacology
D005419:Flavonoids; D018696:Neuroprotective Agents