Schisandrin B as a hormetic agent for preventing age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, with the latter preceding the appearance of clinical symptoms. The energy failure resulting from mitochondrial dysfunction further impedes brain function, which demands large amounts of energy. Schisandrin B (Sch B), an active ingredient isolated from Fructus Schisandrae, has been shown to afford generalized tissue protection against oxidative damage in various organs, including the brain, of experimental animals. Recent experimental findings have further demonstrated that Sch B can protect neuronal cells against oxidative challenge, presumably by functioning as a hormetic agent to sustain cellular redox homeostasis and mitoenergetic capacity in neuronal cells. The combined actions of Sch B offer a promising prospect for preventing or possibly delaying the onset of neurodegenerative diseases, as well as enhancing brain health.
Division of Life Science, The Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, Clear Water Bay, Hong Kong.
Philip Y
PY
Lam
Kam Ming
KM
Ko
D000375:Aging / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000473:pathology*; D000818:Animals; D034242:Cyclooctanes / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology; D059165:Hormesis / Q000187:drug effects*; D017705:Lignans / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology*; D008928:Mitochondria / Q000187:drug effects / Q000378:metabolism; D019636:Neurodegenerative Diseases / Q000473:pathology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D011083:Polycyclic Compounds / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology*; D020011:Protective Agents / Q000737:chemistry / Q000494:pharmacology*
D034242:Cyclooctanes; D017705:Lignans; D011083:Polycyclic Compounds; D020011:Protective Agents; C015499:schizandrin B