A new study published in GeroScience reveals that a combination of nicotinamide and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) can effectively clear toxic proteins from the brain, offering a promising approach to combating age-related cognitive decline.
Researchers at the University of California, Irvine, have identified a potent combination of natural compounds that can rejuvenate aging neurons, restoring their energy levels and clearing the brain of toxic proteins associated with Alzheimer`s disease. Their groundbreaking findings were published in the scientific journal GeroScience.
The study focused on nicotinamide, a form of vitamin B3, and EGCG, an antioxidant abundantly found in green tea. After just 24 hours of treatment with these substances, old neurons exhibited remarkable regeneration, mirroring the behavior of younger cells. Specifically, their energy levels, particularly guanosine triphosphate (GTP), normalized. Cellular metabolism improved significantly, and crucial mechanisms for removing protein aggregates were activated. This led to a more efficient clearance of amyloid plaques by brain cells, a hallmark of Alzheimer`s disease.
Furthermore, the researchers observed a reduction in oxidative damage, a significant contributor to neurodegeneration.
According to lead researcher Gregory Brewer, GTP, previously an underappreciated source of cellular energy, appears to play a vital role in maintaining brain health. He noted that this synergistic combination of readily available nutrients offers promising prospects for a simple and safe preventive strategy against age-related cognitive decline.
However, the scientists emphasize that further research is needed to determine the most effective methods for delivering these compounds to the brain, as orally administered nicotinamide, for instance, is partially inactivated in the bloodstream.
