Ginkgolic Acid Protects against Aβ-Induced Synaptic Dysfunction in the Hippocampus.
Ginkgoleaf is the most used form of supplement for cognitive ailments. The standardized extract formulation EGb 761 is a dietary supplement with proven benefit in several neurological and psychiatric conditions including memory decline in Alzheimer's disease, schizophrenia and dementia. Ginkgolic acid (GA) is a component of this extract which shows pleiotropic effects including antitumoral and anti-HIV action; however, its effect on memory is still unknown. Here, we carried out an electrophysiological analysis to investigate the effects of GA on long term potentiation and synaptic transmission at CA1 hippocampal synapses. We also evaluated the potential rescuing effect of GA on the synaptic dysfunction followingin vitroapplication of Aβ. Data obtained indicate that GA exerts neuroprotective effects against Aβ-induced impairment of neurotransmitter release and synaptic plasticity.
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome "Sapienza"Rome, Italy; European Brain Research Institute, Rita Levi-Montalcini FoundationRome, Italy.
Dalila
D
Mango
Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of Rome "Sapienza"Rome, Italy; European Brain Research Institute, Rita Levi-Montalcini FoundationRome, Italy.
Filippo
F
Weisz
European Brain Research Institute, Rita Levi-Montalcini FoundationRome, Italy; Department of Biology, University of Rome Tor VergataRome, Italy.
Robert
R
Nisticò
Aβ; LTP; electrophysiology; ginkgolic acid; hippocampus