Mushrooms expand memory by promoting nerve growth
Researchers at the University of Queensland have discovered active compounds in edible mushrooms that promote nerve growth and enhance memory.
Professor Frederic Meunier of the Queensland Brain Institute said the team had identified a new active compound from the mushroom Hericium erinaceus.
“Extracts from these so-called ‘lion’s mane’ mushrooms have been used in traditional medicine in Asian countries for centuries, but we wanted to scientifically determine their potential effects on brain cells. ,” said Professor Meunier.
“Preclinical studies have shown that lion’s mane mushrooms have a significant impact on brain cell growth and memory improvement.
“In a laboratory study, we measured the neurotrophic effects of a compound isolated from Hericium erinaceus on cultured brain cells. Surprisingly, the active compound promotes neuronal projections and extends and connects to other neurons.” I discovered that
“Using super-resolution microscopy, we discovered that the mushroom extract and its active ingredients significantly increased the size of growth cones. It is especially important for establishing new connections with
Co-author Dr Ramon Martinez-Marmol of UQ says the discovery has applications that could treat and protect against neurodegenerative cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease.
“Our idea was to identify bioactive compounds from natural sources that could reach the brain and modulate neuron growth and improve memory formation,” said Dr. Martinez-Marmol. .
Dr. Dae Hee Lee of CNGBio Co, who supported and collaborated on the research project, said the properties of the lion’s mane mushroom have been used in traditional Chinese medicine since ancient times to treat disease and maintain good health. I was.
“This important study elucidates the molecular mechanisms of lion’s mane mushroom compounds and their effects on brain function, particularly memory,” said Dr. Lee.
Original: Mushrooms expand memory by promoting nerve growth
Than: University of Queensland | Gachon University | | Chungbuk National University
