Flavonoids and cognition: The molecular mechanisms underlying their behavioural effects

Spencer, J. P. E. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2931-7274, Vauzour, D. and Rendeiro, C. (2009) Flavonoids and cognition: The molecular mechanisms underlying their behavioural effects. Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 492 (1-2). pp. 1-9. ISSN 0003-9861 doi: 10.1016/j.abb.2009.10.003

Abstract/Summary

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. (C) 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Item Type	Article
URI	https://reading-clone.eprints-hosting.org/id/eprint/12968
Item Type	Article
Refereed	Yes
Divisions	Interdisciplinary centres and themes > Institute for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research (ICMR) Life Sciences > School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy > Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences Life Sciences > School of Chemistry, Food and Pharmacy > Department of Food and Nutritional Sciences > Human Nutrition Research Group
Uncontrolled Keywords	Flavonoid, Brain, Memory, Signalling, Vascular system, GREEN TEA POLYPHENOL, INDUCED MICROGLIAL ACTIVATION, NEURONAL, SIGNAL-TRANSDUCTION, ELEMENT-BINDING PROTEIN, LONG-TERM POTENTIATION, NITRIC-OXIDE SYNTHASE, GENOME-WIDE ANALYSIS, KINASE-C INHIBITION, FLAVANOL-RICH COCOA, INDUCED CELL-DEATH
Publisher	Elsevier
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