Scientific Studies
On The Effect of Brain Lightning Ingredients
Copyright © 1999- Novus Research.
All Rights Reserved.
SELECTION OF brain lightning™ MAJOR NEUROLOGICAL component STUDIES:
HUPERZINE A, VINPOCETINE, gingko biloba, DMAE, trimethylglycine, pregnenolone, L-tyrosine,
D-L Phenylalinine, GABABrain Lightning™ component effect categories
Huperzine
A
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MEMORY, LEARNING AND INTELLECTUAL CAPACITY: [See also Gingko Biloba ]
~ Huperzine-A capsules enhance memory and learning performance in 34 pairs of matched adolescent students.
Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1999 Jul;20(7):601-3. PMID: 10678121; UI: 20142611 Abstract
~ Drug evaluation of huperzine A in the treatment of senile memory disorders]. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1991 May;12(3):250-2. Chinese. PMID: 1781288; UI: 92142728 Abstract
~ Improving effects of huperzine A on spatial working memory in monkeys with experimental cognitive impairment. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 1999 Feb;288(2):814-9. PMID: 9918593; UI: 99117457 Abstract
~ Effects of huperzine A on nucleus basalis magnocellularis lesion-induced spatial working memory deficit.
Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1998 Mar;19(2):128-32. PMID: 10374634; UI: 99302864 Abstract
~ Huperzine A ameliorates the spatial working memory impairments induced by AF64A. Neuroreport. 1995 Nov 13;6(16):2221-4. PMID: 8595207; UI: 96164235 Abstract
~ Intelligence promoting Chinese materia medica. Chung Kuo Chung Hsi I Chieh Ho Tsa Chih. 1995 Jan;15(1):59-61. Review. Chinese. No abstract available. PMID: 7767069; UI: 95284550
~ Effects of huperzine A on learning and the retrieval process of discrimination performance in rats]. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1986 Nov;7(6):507-11. Chinese. No abstract available. PMID: 2955639; UI: 87266703
~ Facilitatory effects of huperzine A and B on learning and memory of spatial discrimination in mice].
Yao Hsueh Hsueh Pao. 1987 Nov;22(11):812-7. Chinese. No abstract available.
PMID: 3452959; UI: 88266746
~ Improvement of impaired memory in mice by huperzine A and huperzine B. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1988 Nov;9(6):492-7. Chinese. No abstract available. PMID: 3256210; UI: 89371023 Ref
~ Efficacy of tablet huperzine-A on memory, cognition, and behavior in Alzheimer's disease. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1995 Sep;16(5):391-5. PMID: 8701750; UI: 96287029 AbstractALZHEIMER'S AND DEMENTIA: [Also see Gingko Biloba]
~ Huperzine A--a potent acetylcholinesterase inhibitor of use in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Acta Crystallogr C. 1991 Apr 15;47 ( Pt 4):824-7. PMID: 1863425; UI: 91321826 Abstract
~ Huperzine-A in capsules and tablets for treating patients with Alzheimer disease. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1999 Jun;20(6):486-90.PMID: 10678137; UI: 20142627 Abstract
~ Huperzine A, a potential therapeutic agent for dementia, reduces neuronal cell death caused by glutamate. Neuroreport. 1997 Mar 3;8(4):963-8. PMID: 9141073; UI: 97285856 Ved HS, Koenig ML, Dave JR, Doctor BP.
~ Huperzine A, a potential therapeutic agent for treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Curr Med Chem. 2000 Mar;7(3):355-74. Review. PMID: 10637369; UI: 20105726 Abstract
~ Suppressive action produced by beta-amyloid peptide fragment 31-35 on long-term potentiation in rat hippocampus is N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor-independent: it's offset by Huperzine A. Neurosci Lett. 1999 Nov 19;275(3):187-90. PMID: 10580706; UI: 20046673 Abstract
~ Huperzine a: an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor with high pharmacological potential Ann Pharm Fr. 1999 Sep;57(5):363-73. Review. French. PMID: 10520506; UI: 99450224 Abstract
~ Modulation of NMDA receptor by huperzine A in rat cerebral cortex. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1999 Jan;20(1):31-5. PMID: 10437121; UI: 99366174 Abstract
~ Anticholinesterase effects of huperzine A, E2020, and tacrine in rats. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1998 Jan;19(1):27-30. PMID: 10375753; UI: 99304041 Abstract
~ Huperzine A (shuangyiping): a promising drug for Alzheimer's disease. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1996 Nov;17(6):481-4. Review. PMID: 9863136; UI: 99080377 Abstract
~ Old Chinese herbal medicine used for fever yields possible new Alzheimer disease therapy. JAMA. 1997 Mar 12;277(10):776. No abstract available. PMID: 9052690; UI: 97205186 Abstract
~ Inhibition of cholinesterase-associated aryl acylamidase activity by anticholinesterase agents: focus on drugs potentially effective in Alzheimer's disease. Biochem Pharmacol. 1998 May 15;55(10):1733-7. PMID: 9634011; UI: 98295768 Abstract
~ Anti-cholinesterase activity of huperzine A . Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1986 Mar;7(2):110-3. Chinese. No abstract available. PMID: 2946143; UI: 87045128
IMPROVEMENT OF COGNITIVE DEFICITS:~ Huperzine A improves cognitive deficits caused by chronic cerebral hypoperfusion in rats.Eur J Pharmacol. 2000 Jun 9;398(1):65-72. [Record as supplied by publisher] PMID: 10856449 Abstract
~ Improving effect of huperzine A on discrimination performance in aged rats and adult rats with experimental cognitive impairment. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1988 Jan;9(1):11-5. Chinese. No abstract available.
PMID: 3188928; UI: 89046590
ORGANOPHOSPHATE EXPOSURE:~ Pretreatment of organophosphate poisoning: potential interests of huperzine A. Ann Pharm Fr. 2000 Jan;58(1):13-7. French. PMID: 10669806; UI: 20135721 Abstract
~ Efficacy of huperzine in preventing soman-induced seizures, neuropathological changes and lethality. Fundam Clin Pharmacol. 1997;11(5):387-94. PMID: 9342591; UI: 98001951 Abstract
~ Huperzine A as a pretreatment candidate drug against nerve agent toxicity. Life Sci. 1994;54(14):991-7. PMID: 8139389; UI: 94187538 Abstract
OXIDATIVE CHEMICAL EXPOSURE:
~ Huperzine A protects rat pheochromocytoma cells against hydrogen peroxide-induced injury. Neurosci Lett. 1999 Nov 12;275(2):73-6. PMID: 10568502; UI: 20033150 AbstractOTHER GENERAL NEUROPSYCHOLOGICAL STUDIES:
~ Huperzine A--an interesting anticholinesterase compound from the Chinese herbal medicine. Acta Medica (Hradec Kralove). 1998;41(4):155-7. Review. PMID: 9951045; UI: 99136196 Abstract
~ Effect of huperzine A, a new cholinesterase inhibitor, on the central cholinergic system of the rat.
J Neurosci Res. 1989 Oct;24(2):276-85. PMID: 2585551; UI: 90064621 Abstract
~ Development of natural products as drugs acting on central nervous system. Mem Inst Oswaldo Cruz. 1991;86 Suppl 2:173-5. Review. PMID: 1841995; UI: 93062065 Abstract
~ Acute and chronic studies with the anticholinesterase Huperzine A: effect on central nervous system cholinergic parameters. Neuropharmacology. 1991 Jul;30(7):763-8.
PMID: 1922687; UI: 92018672 Abstract
~ Interpreting the effect of methyl group at the three carbon bridge of Huperzine A on its anticholinesterase activity by molecular dynamics method. Bioorg Med Chem Lett. 1998 Mar 3;8(5):419-22. PMID: 9871590; UI: 99088756 Abstract
~ Facilitatory effect of huperzine-A on mouse neuromuscular transmission in vitro. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1996 Jul;17(4):299-301. PMID: 9812706; UI: 99029249 Abstract
~ Reversal of scopolamine-induced deficits in radial maze performance by Huperzine A: comparison with E2020 and tacrine. Eur J Pharmacol. 1998 May 22;349(2-3):137-42. PMID: 9671090; UI: 98334165 Abstract
~ Huperzine A, a novel promising acetylcholinesterase inhibitor. Neuroreport. 1996 Dec 20;8(1):97-101. PMID: 9051760; UI: 97204188 Abstract
~ Pharmacokinetics of tablet huperzine A in six volunteers. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1995 Sep;16(5):396-8. PMID: 8701751; UI: 96287030 Abstract
~ Second generation cholinesterase inhibitors: effect of (L)-huperzine-A on cortical biogenic amines. J Neurosci Res. 1995 Aug 15;41(6):828-35. PMID: 7500384; UI: 96058747 Abstract
~ Facilitation of cholinergic transmission by huperzine A in toad paravertebral ganglia in vitro. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1994 Mar;15(2):158-61. Chinese. PMID: 8010112; UI: 94279448 Abstract
~ Effects of huperzine A and B on skeletal muscle and the electroencephalogram]. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1987 Mar;8(2):117-23. Chinese. No abstract available. PMID: 2958995; UI: 88020227
~ Huperzine A. Am J Health Syst Pharm. 2000 Mar 15;57(6):530, 533-4. Review. No abstract available. PMID: 10754762; UI: 20217476
~ Role of tyrosine 337 in the binding of huperzine A to the active site of human acetylcholinesterase.
Mol Pharmacol. 1994 Mar;45(3):555-60. PMID: 8145739; UI: 94195284 Abstract
~ Mechanism of inhibition of cholinesterases by huperzine A. Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 1992 Apr 30;184(2):719-26. PMID: 1575745; UI: 92246957 Ashani Y, Peggins JO 3d, Doctor BP.
~ Delineating the pharmacophoric elements of huperzine A: importance of the unsaturated three-carbon bridge to its AChE inhibitory activity. J Med Chem. 1991 Dec;34(12):3399-402. No abstract available. PMID: 1766006; UI: 92114031
Vinpocetine
(Also known as Cavinton)
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~ Calcium, phosphorus and aluminum concentrations in the central nervous system, liver and kidney of rabbits with experimental atherosclerosis: preventive effects of vinpocetine on the deposition of these elements. J Int Med Res. 1990 Mar-Apr;18(2):142-52. PMID: 2340946; UI: 90255785 Abstract
~ Synaptosomal response to oxidative stress: effect of vinpocetine. Free Radic Res. 2000 Jan;32(1):57-66. PMID: 10625217; UI: 20088555 Abstract
~ Indole derivatives as neuroprotectants. Life Sci. 1999;65(18-19):1943-50. Review. PMID: 10576443; UI: 20041862 Abstract
~ Vinpocetine protects against excitotoxic cell death in primary cultures of rat cerebral cortex. Eur J Pharmacol. 1990 Oct 23;187(3):551-3. PMID: 1981558; UI: 91160642 Abstract
~ The neuroprotective drug vinpocetine prevents veratridine-induced [Na+]i and [Ca2+]i rise in synaptosomes.
Neuroreport. 1998 Jun 1;9(8):1849-53. PMID: 9665614; UI: 98328551 Abstract
~ VA-045, a novel apovincamic acid derivative attenuates neuronal injury induced by hypoxia or by excitatory amino acids in cultures of rat cortices. Life Sci. 1996;59(18):1571-8. PMID: 8890938; UI: 97046016 Abstract
~ Vinpocetine is a highly potent neuroprotectant against veratridine-induced cell death in primary cultures of rat cerebral cortex. Neurosci Lett. 1995 Feb 9;185(2):127-30. PMID: 7746503; UI: 95265298 Abstract
~ Effect of vinpocetine on oxygen release of hemoglobin and erythrocyte organic polyphosphate concentrations in patients with vascular dementia of the Binswanger type. Arzneimittelforschung. 1990 Jun;40(6):640-3. PMID: 2396997; UI: 90372943 Abstract
~ Protective effects of vinpocetine and structurally related drugs on the lethal consequences of hypoxia in mice. Arch Int Pharmacodyn Ther. 1987 Apr;286(2):299-307. PMID: 3592869; UI: 87240548 Abstract
~ Vinpocetine protects from aminoglycoside antibiotic-induced hearing loss in guinea pig in vivo. Brain Res. 2000 Jun 23;868(2):222-229. [Record as supplied by publisher] PMID: 10854574 Abstract
ISCHAEMIC STROKE INTERVENTION:
~ Vinpocetine for acute ischaemic stroke. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000;2:CD000480. [Record as supplied by publisher] PMID: 10796369 Abstract
~ Cerebral effects of a single dose of intravenous vinpocetine in chronic stroke patients: a PET study. J Neuroimaging. 1998 Oct;8(4):197-204. PMID: 9780850; UI: 98454135 Abstract
~ A systematic review of vinpocetine therapy in acute ischaemic stroke. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1999 Jul;55(5):349-52. Review. PMID: 10456483; UI: 99383386 Abstract
~ Effect of vinpocetine on red blood cell deformability in stroke patients. Arzneimittelforschung. 1992 Apr;42(4):425-7. PMID: 1642666; UI: 92352498 Abstract
~ The evaluation of the efficacy of antihypoxic agents lowering hemoglobin oxygen affinity in acute cerebral ischemia. Biull Eksp Biol Med. 1991 Feb;111(2):170-2. Russian. PMID: 1854961; UI: 91308647 Abstract
~ Protective effect of vinpocetine against brain damage caused by ischemia. Jpn J Pharmacol. 1991 Jul;56(3):349-56. PMID: 1895579; UI: 91374862 Abstract
~ Vinpocetine prevents ischemic cell damage in rat hippocampus. Life Sci. 1988;43(21):1733-9. PMID: 3193857; UI: 89056614 Abstract
~ Cavinton in the treatment of acute stroke.Ther Hung. 1985;33(1):50-7. No abstract available. PMID: 3841999; UI: 87019683 Abstract
~ Protective effect of vinpocetine on experimental brain ischemia. Nippon Yakurigaku Zasshi. 1982 Sep; 80(3):225-9. Japanese. PMID: 7152392; UI: 83106730 Abstract
CEREBRAL BLOOD FLOW IMPROVEMENT:
~ Effects of vinpocetine on local cerebral blood flow and glucose utilization seven days after forebrain ischemia in the rat. Pharmacology. 1990;41(3):153-60. PMID: 2277809; UI: 91117735 Abstract
~ Principles of pharmacologic correction of neurologic disorders in initial atherosclerotic encephalopathy. Gerontology. 1988;34(1-2):75-81. PMID: 3384341; UI: 88255896 Abstract
~ Pharmacodynamic action of cavinton on regional volume blood flow, central hemodynamics and the bioelectric activity of the brain in the acute stage of a cerebral infarct. Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1987;87(1):46-50. Russian. PMID: 3825388; UI: 87151998 Abstract
~ Cavinton treatment of patients with chronic cerebral circulatory insufficiency. Vrach Delo. 1986 Apr;(4):51-4. Russian. No abstract available. PMID: 3716339; UI: 86237316 Abstract
~ Agents to improve cerebrovascular circulation and cerebral metabolism--vinpocetine . Nippon Rinsho. 1985 Feb;43(2):376-8. Review. Japanese. No abstract available. PMID: 2987571; UI: 85211414
~ Cerebral circulation and various indices of the functional status of the brain during aging. Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1985;85(9):1374-8. Russian. PMID: 4072540; UI: 86073076
~ Effect of cavinton on systemic and cerebral hemodynamics of patients with chronic cerebral circulatory insufficiency. Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1985;85(9):1338-42. Russian. PMID: 4072532; UI: 86073067 Abstract
~ Therapeutic effect of cavinton in chronic cerebral circulatory insufficiency. Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1985;85(1):53-6. Russian. PMID: 3984593; UI: 85170772 Abstract
~ Effects of TCV-3B (vinpocetine) on blood viscosity in ischemic cerebrovascular diseases. Ther Hung. 1985;33(1):7-12. No abstract available. PMID: 3842000; UI: 87019684 Abstract
~ The effect of vinpocetine on cerebral blood flow in patients with cerebrovascular disorders. Ther Hung. 1985;33(1):13-21. No abstract available. PMID: 3841996; UI: 87019679 Abstract
MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS RELAPSE INHIBITION:
~ Drop in relapse rate of MS by combination therapy of three different phosphodiesterase inhibitors. Mult Scler. 2000 Feb;6(1):56-8. PMID: 10694847; UI: 20161030 AbstractRADIATION PROTECTION:
~ An in vitro study of the hydroxyl scavenger effect of Cavinton. Acta Paediatr Hung. 1990;30(2):309-16. PMID: 2174249; UI: 91064103 Abstract
~ Experimental study of radiation protective efficacy of Vinca alkaloid drugs.Radiats Biol Radioecol. 1994 May-Jun;34(3):430-5. Russian. PMID: 8069381; UI: 94348601 Abstract
~ Preventive effect of vinpocetine on calcifications: atherosclerosis in experimental rabbits. Acta Neurol Scand. 1989 Mar;79(3):239-42. PMID: 2718742; UI: 89244108 Abstract
~ Effect of Cavinton on convulsions caused by chemical substances. Farmakol Toksikol. 1986 Jul-Aug; 49(4):22-5. Russian. PMID: 3758323; UI: 87005193 Abstract
~ Use of cavinton in epilepsy. Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1986;86(6):850-5. Russian. PMID: 3751419; UI: 86318783 Abstract
GENERAL STUDIES:
~ Vinpocetine therapy does not change imipramine pharmacokinetics in man. Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther Toxicol. 1990 Mar;28(3):99-104.
PMID: 2318551; UI: 90202184 Abstract
~ A review of nutrients and botanicals in the integrative management of cognitive dysfunction. Altern Med Rev. 1999 Jun;4(3):144-61. Review. PMID: 10383479; UI: 99316130 Abstract
~ Cerebral uptake and metabolism of (11C) Vinpocetine in monkeys: PET studies. Orv Hetil. 1999 Jul 25;140(30):1687-91. Hungarian. PMID: 10461449; UI: 99390550 Abstract
~ Nootropic agent vinpocetine blocks delayed rectified potassium currents more strongly than high-threshold calcium currents. Neurosci Behav Physiol. 1998 Mar-Apr;28(2):116-20. PMID: 9604212; UI: 98267571 Abstract
~ Vincamine and vincanol are potent blockers of voltage-gated Na+ channels. Eur J Pharmacol. 1996 Oct 24;314(1-2):69-73. PMID: 8957220; UI: 97116132 Abstract
~ Mechanism of action of vinpocetine. Acta Pharm Hung. 1996 Sep;66(5):213-24. Hungarian. PMID: 9082841; UI: 97195825 Abstract
~ Study on the absorption of vinpocetine and apovincaminic acid. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 1993 Oct-Dec;18(4):317-21. PMID: 8020528; UI: 94291690 Abstract
~ Protective action of vinpocetine against experimentally induced gastric damage in rats. Arzneimittelforschung. 1993 Sep;43(9):981-5. PMID: 8240463; UI: 94059227 Abstract
~ Clinical appraisal of vinpocetine for the removal of intractable tumoral calcinosis in haemodialysis patients with renal failure. J Int Med Res. 1992 Sep;20(5):435-43. PMID: 1451924; UI: 93083802 Abstract
~ 10-year experience with using Cavinton in cerebrovascular disorders. Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1992;92(1):56-60. Russian. PMID: 1319651; UI: 92312252 Abstract
~ Vinpocetine increases the neuroprotective effect of adenosine in vitro. Eur J Pharmacol. 1991 Nov 19;205(1):7-10. PMID: 1811999; UI: 92249444 Abstract
~ Efficacy and tolerance of vinpocetine in ambulant patients suffering from mild to moderate organic psychosyndromes. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 1991 Spring;6(1):31-43. PMID: 2071888; UI: 91302774 Abstract
~ Cavinton in the prevention of the convulsive syndrome in children after birth injury. Zh Nevropatol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova. 1991;91(8):21-2. Russian. PMID: 1661506; UI: 92094951 Abstract
~ Pharmacokinetics of vinpocetine and its main metabolite apovincaminic acid before and after the chronic oral administration of vinpocetine to humans. Eur J Drug Metab Pharmacokinet. 1990 Jan-Mar;15(1):1-5. PMID: 2384112; UI: 90345994 Abstract
~ Pharmacology of nootropics and metabolically active compounds in relation to their use in dementia.
Psychopharmacology (Berl). 1990;101(2):147-59. Review. PMID: 2190256; UI: 90272901 Abstract
~ Vinpocetine pharmacokinetics in elderly subjects. Arzneimittelforschung. 1989 Dec;39(12):1599-602. PMID: 2624613; UI: 90166097 Grandt R, Beitinger H, Schaltenbrand R, Braun W.
~ A double-blind placebo controlled evaluation of the safety and efficacy of vinpocetine in the treatment of patients with chronic vascular senile cerebral dysfunction. J Am Geriatr Soc. 1987 May;35(5):425-30. PMID: 3553281; UI: 87195950 Abstract
~ Psychopharmacological effects of vinpocetine in normal healthy volunteers. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 1985;28(5):567-71. PMID: 3899677; UI: 86004949 Abstract
CLINICAL STUDIES:
Gingko Biloba
(Extract also known as EGb761 or GBE)
Top of PageDEMENTIA and COGNITIVE DISORDERS: [Also see Huperzine A]
~ The pharmacological effects of ginkgo biloba, a plant extract, on the brain of dementia patients in comparison with tacrine. Psychopharmacol Bull. 1998;34(3):391-7. PMID: 9803773; UI: 99020614 Abstract
~ Treatment options for Alzheimer's disease. J Am Osteopath Assoc. 1999 Sep;99(9 Suppl):S6-8. Review. PMID: 10730506; UI: 20194699 Abstract Related Articles
~ Use of special Ginkgo biloba extract for cognitive disorders in the elderly. Wien Med Wochenschr. 1999;149(8-10):231-4. Review. German. PMID: 10483688; UI: 99413186 Abstract
~ Involvement of monoamine oxidase inhibition in neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects of Ginkgo biloba extract against MPTP-induced nigrostriatal dopaminergic toxicity in C57 mice. Life Sci. 1999;65(2):157-64.
PMID: 10416821; UI: 99343229 Abstract Related Articles
~ Therapeutic value of Ginkgo biloba in reducing symptoms of decline in mental function. J Pharm Pharmacol. 1999 May;51(5):535-41. PMID: 10411212; UI: 99337019 Abstract Related Articles
~ Involvement of monoamine oxidase inhibition in neuroprotective and neurorestorative effects of Ginkgo biloba extract against MPTP-induced nigrostriatal dopaminergic toxicity in C57 mice. Life Sci. 1999;65(2):157-64. PMID: 10416821; UI: 99343229 Abstract Related Articles
~ The efficacy of Ginkgo biloba on cognitive function in Alzheimer disease. Arch Neurol. 1998 Nov;55(11):1409-15. Review. PMID: 9823823; UI: 99039429 Oken BS, Storzbach DM, Kaye JA. Related Articles
GLAUCOMA AND VISION MEDIATION:
~ Potential role for Ginkgo biloba extract in the treatment of glaucoma. Med Hypotheses. 2000 Feb; 54 (2) : 221-35. Review. PMID: 10790757; UI: 20253824 Abstract Related Articles
~ Ginkgo biloba extract increases ocular blood flow velocity. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther. 1999 Jun;15(3):233-40. PMID: 10385132; UI: 99311858 Abstract Related Articles
PROTECTION OF HIPPOCAMPAL CELLS AGAINST NITRIC OXIDE TOXICITY:
~ The Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) protects and rescues hippocampal cells against nitric oxide-induced toxicity: J Neurochem. 2000 Jun;74(6):2268-77. PMID: 10820186; UI: 20281829 Abstract Related Articles ~ In-vivo and in-vitro assessment of the free-radical-scavenger activity of Ginkgo flavone glycosides at high concentration. J Pharm Pharmacol. 1999 Dec;51(12):1435-40. PMID: 10678500; UI: 20141968 Abstract Related Articles
GLUTAMATE INDUCED TOXICITY PROTECTION:
~ Antioxidants and herbal extracts protect HT-4 neuronal cells against glutamate-induced cytotoxicity. Free Radic Res. 2000 Feb;32(2):115-24. PMID: 10653482; UI: 20117207 Abstract Related Articles
~ Antagonistic effects of extract from leaves of ginkgo biloba on glutamate neurotoxicity. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1997 Jul;18(4):344-7. PMID: 10072919; UI: 99172457 Zhu L, Wu J, Liao H, Gao J, Zhao XN, Zhang ZX. Related Articles
REPAIR OF DAMAGED NEURONAL ENERGY METABOLISM:
~ Damaged neuronal energy metabolism and behavior are improved by Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761). J Neural Transm. 1999;106(11-12):1171-88. PMID: 10651112; UI: 20114534 Abstract Related Articles ~ Elixirs for your memory. Time. 1999 Sep 13;154(11):60-1. No abstract available. PMID: 10620921; UI: 99444710 Related Articles
~ Non-remembrance of things past. Ginkgo biloba for memory loss. N C Med J. 2000 Jan-Feb;61(1):393-5. No abstract available. PMID: 10647257; UI: 20113554 Abstract Related Articles
~ The effects of acute doses of standardized Ginkgo biloba extract on memory and psychomotor performance in volunteers. Phytother Res. 1999 Aug;13(5):408-15. PMID: 10441781; UI: 99373520 Abstract Related Articles
~ Ginkgo biloba and memory for a maze. Psychol Rep. 1999 Apr;84(2):481-4. PMID: 10335061; Abstract
HIPPOCAMPAL PHOSPHOLIPID BREAKDOWN INHIBITION:
~ Bilobalide, a constituent of Ginkgo biloba, inhibits NMDA-induced phospholipase A2 activation and phospholipid breakdown in rat hippocampus. Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol. 1999 Dec;360(6):609-15. PMID: 10619176; UI: 20084194 Abstract Related Articles
~ Can winter depression be prevented by Ginkgo biloba extract? A placebo-controlled trial. Acta Psychiatr Scand. 1999 Jul;100(1):62-6. PMID: 10442441; UI: 99369045 Abstract Related Articles
~ Inhibition of rat adjuvant-induced arthritis by ginkgetin, a biflavone from ginkgo biloba leaves. Planta Med. 1999 Jun;65(5):465-7. PMID: 10418340; UI: 99346894 Abstract Related Articles
~ Ginkgo biloba for tinnitus: a review. Clin Otolaryngol. 1999 Jun;24(3):164-7. Review. No abstract available. PMID: 10384838; UI: 99312832 Related Articles
CEREBRAL ISCHEMIA:
~ Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761) protects Na,K-ATPase activity during cerebral ischemia in mice. Neuroreport. 1999 Jan 18;10(1):47-51. PMID: 10094131; UI: 99191919 Abstract Related Articles
GENERAL STUDIES:
~ Ginkgo biloba extract (EGb 761). State of knowledge in the dawn of the year 2000. Ann Pharm Fr. 1999 Jul;57 Suppl 1:1S8-88. Review. French. PMID: 10481350; UI: 99410964 Abstract Related Articles
~ Experimental studies of the protective effect of ginkgo biloba extract (GBE) on cisplatin-induced toxicity in rats]. Nippon Jibiinkoka Gakkai Kaiho. 1999 Jul;102(7):907-17. Japanese. PMID: 10459293; UI: 99388585 Fukaya H, Kanno H. Related Articles
~ Protective effects of Ginkgo biloba extract against lysophosphatidylcholine-induced vascular endothelial cell damage. Chung Kuo Yao Li Hsueh Pao. 1998 Jul;19(4):359-63. PMID: 10375785; UI: 99304073 Abstract
~ Ginkgo biloba (EGb 761) in the treatment of equilibrium disorders. Adv Ther. 1998 Sep-Oct;15(5):291-304. PMID: 10345150; UI: 99139300 Abstract
~ The protective effect of Ginkgo biloba extract on CCl4-induced hepatic damage. Acta Physiol Hung. 1997-98;85(3):277-85. PMID: 10101542; UI: 99201758 Abstract Related Articles
~ Ginkgo biloba extract EGb761 reduces the development of amphetamine-induced behavioral sensitization: effects on hippocampal type II corticosteroid receptors. Brain Res. 1999 Feb 6;8 18(1):135-9. PMID: 9914446; UI: 99115282 Trovero F, Brochet D, Tassin JP, Drieu K. Related Articles
DMAE (dimethylaminoethanol)
(also known as Dianol, Deanol)DMAE IS A PRECURSOR TO ACETYLCHOLINE:
~ Zahniser NR, Chou D, Hanin I. Is 2-dimethylaminoethanol (Deanol) indeed a precursor of brain acetylcholine? A gas chromatographic evaluation. J Pharm Exp Ther 1977;200:545–59.
~ Ethanolamine analogues stimulate DNA synthesis FEBS Lett. 1996 Feb 26;381(1-2):67-70. PMID: 8641441; UI: 96193915 Abstract
INDUCTION OF LUCID DREAMING:~ Use of DMAE (2-dimethylaminoethanol) in the induction of lucid dreams. Med Hypotheses. 1988 Aug;26(4):255-7. PMID: 3173167; UI: 89014030 Abstract
CELL MEMBRANE STABILIZATION AND REPAIR: Abstract search in progress
MEDIATION OF CELLULAR OXYGEN DEPRIVATION:~ Effects of nootropic drugs on some behavioural and biochemical changes after early postnatal hypoxia in the rat. Biomed Biochim Acta. 1986;45(8):1075-82. Abstract not available.
BEHAVIOR-MOOD ENHANCEMENT: One uncontrolled four-week trial of fourteen senile patients given DMAE supplements of 600 mg three times per day did produce positive behavior changes in some of the patients:
Ferris SH, Sathananthan G, Gershon S, et al. Senile dementia. Treatment with Deanol. J Am Ger Soc 1977;25:241–44.
DEPRESSION ALLEVIATION, FREE RADICAL SCAVENGING, EFFECT ON MOTOR MECHANISMS, LEARNING, BEHAVIOR AND IQ : Various studies described here.
REVERSAL OF MENTAL IMPAIRMENT: "...Sixty elderly volunteers ... who lacked concentration and efficiency during mental exercise according to their own opinions participated in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study...In the light of the current hypothesis that [in EEG testing] high theta resting power and low increases at frontotemporal brain areas during mental work indicate mental impairment, treatment with the drug under investigation was seen to successfully reverse these changes..." Source density analysis of functional topographical EEG: monitoring of cognitive drug action. Dimpfel W, Hofmann HC, Prohaska A, Schober F, Schellenberg R, Eur J Med Res 1996 Mar 19;1(6):283-90
Trimethylglycine (TMG)
(Also called Anhydrous Bentaine (not Bentaine) or Oxyneurine)ANTI-HOMOCYSTEINE AGENT: Abstract search in progress
SERUM CHOLESTEROL REDUCTION:~ Effect of trimethylglycine on lipid metabolism in experimental atherosclerosis in rabbits. Farmakol Toksikol. 1983 Jul-Aug;46(4):83-5. Russian. PMID: 6617841; UI: 84005061 Abstract
MEMORY ENHANCEMENT:
~ Memory-enhancing effects in male mice of pregnenolone and steroids metabolically derived from it. Proc Nat'l Acad Sci 89: 1567-71, March 1992, Flood JF; Morley JE and Roberts E.
MEMORY ENHANCEMENT:~Tyrosine improves working memory in a multitasking environment. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1999 Nov;64(3):495-500. PMID: 10548261; UI: 20014297 Abstract
~ Tyrosine reverses a cold-induced working memory deficit in humans. Pharmacol Biochem Behav. 1994 Apr;47(4):935-41. PMID: 8029265; UI: 94302062 AbstractCOGNITIVE ENHANCEMENT:
~The effects of tyrosine on cognitive performance during extended wakefulness. Aviat Space Environ Med. 1995 Apr;66(4):313-9. PMID: 7794222; UI: 95314576 Abstract
~ Tyrosine improves cognitive performance and reduces blood pressure in cadets after one week of a combat training course. Brain Res Bull. 1999 Jan 15;48(2):203-9. PMID: 10230711; UI: 99245742 Abstract
BLOOD PRESSURE REDUCTION:
ALLEVIATION OF HYPOXIA-INDUCED LEARNING REDUCTION:
~ Tyrosine administration prevents hypoxia-induced decrements in learning and memory. Physiol Behav. 1996 Apr-May;59(4-5):867-71. PMID: 8778879; UI: 96270863 Abstract
IMPROVEMENT OF PERFORMANCE UNDER STRESS:
~ Tyrosine and its potential use as a countermeasure to performance decrement in military sustained operations. Aviat Space Environ Med. 1992 May;63(5):364-9. Review. PMID: 1599383; UI: 92286981 Abstract
Phenylalanine
(Precursor for Tyrosine)ALLEVIATION OF DEPRESSION:
~ L-phenylalanine in the treatment of depression. J Neural Transm. 1984;59(1):81-7. PMID: 6425455; UI: 84187532 Abstract
~ Therapy of depression by phenylalanine. Preliminary note. Arzneimittelforschung. 1975 Jan;25(1):132. PMID: 1173765; UI: 75205146 Abstract
MOOD IMPROVEMENT:~ Effects on mood of acute phenylalanine/tyrosine depletion in healthy women. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2000 Jan;22(1):52-63. PMID: 10633491; UI: 20099308 Abstract
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
Old age's mental slowdown may be reversible
New Scientist Online News 19:00 01 May 03
The slowdown of the brain with old age is due to the lack of a brain chemical which helps neurons to be selective about what they respond to, reveals research involving the world's oldest monkeys. Higher brain functions, such as visual recognition or understanding language, require the processing of information in the brain but decline as people get older. This decline appears to be due to a reduction in a neurotransmitter called GABA, say researchers, which means neurons with specific tasks become more easily fired by some other stimulus.
Macaque monkeys, with an age equivalent to 90-years in humans, were not as sharp as their younger counterparts in visual tests despite having perfect eyesight. But when they were given drugs to increase levels of GABA in the brain they improved vastly, say the team. Delivering GABA calms the neurons down and they become more selective, says neuroscientist Audie Leventhal, at the University of Utah School of Medicine, who led the study. "They look the same as they did 20 years ago," he says. Importantly, this suggests that mental decline could be easily treated, says Leventhal. "The fact is all the cells are still there and functioning, it's a transmitter problem - it's treatable," he told New Scientist.
The study is the first to show that increasing GABA or its effects can reverse mental decline, says Leventhal. But drugs that boost GABA's effects, such as benzodiazepines, are normally used to tranquillise brain activity not sharpen it. "It is counterintuitive to say that in order to make Grandpa faster, slow down his brain. Nobody was really thinking about giving tranquillisers to an 85-year-old to perk him up - which is the implication of the study," he says. But he cautions that the team has done no research in humans and that people should not start taking the drugs themselves.
Peter Tyrer, a community psychiatrist at Imperial College London, thinks the findings are "very interesting and novel". He adds that doctors have sometimes observed a paradoxical effect of benzodiazepine drugs in which rather than calming down, people had become more alert and aggressive. The reason GABA is so important in the brain is that it works as a "gating" mechanism, explains Leventhal. By helping neurons to respond only to specific stimuli, it enables the brain to make sense of the vast quantity of incoming information.
However, as people get older the neurons in their brains increasingly fire non-selectively. Interpreting information then becomes like listening to "whispering in the discotheque as opposed to shouting in a quiet room," Leventhal says. In the work with the young and old monkeys, his team examined neurons in the part of the brain's vision cortex associated with orientation and shape. He says this is analogous to the region used for vision in humans.
The researchers measured the neuronal responses in monkeys watching computer screens displaying various stimuli, such as moving horizontal lines or flashing dots. Certain neurons should only have been activated in response to specific stimuli - but this was not the case in the oldest monkeys. When GABA and a GABA-enhancing drug were delivered to the brain cells, the team saw an improvement in the selectivity of neurons in the older animals within a couple of minutes. Leventhal believes a lack of GABA as people age will not just affect vision but all higher brain functions. The team is now exploring the effects of GABA further and has filed patent applications for this new role of GABA-enhancing drugs in humans.
Journal reference: Science: (Volume 300, p 812)
