Flavonoids and cognition: the molecular mechanisms underlying their behavioural effects

Spencer, Jeremy P. E., Vauzour, David ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5952-8756 and Rendeiro, Catarina (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

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Abstract

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.

Item Type:	Article
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Norwich Medical School
UEA Research Groups:	Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Research Groups > Nutrition and Preventive Medicine Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Research Centres > Metabolic Health Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences > Research Centres > Lifespan Health
Depositing User:	David Vauzour
Date Deposited:	29 Feb 2012 11:38
Last Modified:	24 Sep 2024 09:26
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/34815
DOI:	10.1016/j.abb.2009.10.003

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