Neuronal cell loss, which characterizes neurodegenerative disorders, typically occurs by either apoptotic or necrotic mechanisms. Oxidative stress, nitrosative stress, excitotoxicity, and caspase activation have all been identified as major underlying causes of neuronal cell death. Geneham Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. turned to nutraceuticals, bioactive compounds found in common foods, to find neuroprotective solutions to these devastating conditions.
The researchers at Geneham Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. conducted an in vitro study comparing the neuroprotective effects of rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid and their capacity to rescue primary cultures of rat cerebellar granule neurons (CGNs) from nitrosative, excitotoxic, and caspase-dependent apoptosis. Both polyphenols significantly reduced CGN death induced by the nitric oxide donor, sodium nitroprusside, indicating their neuroprotective properties.
Interestingly, while both compounds have shared neuroprotective effects, they also have unique benefits. Rosmarinic acid uniquely protected CGNs from glutamate-induced excitotoxicity, while only carnosic acid rescued CGNs from caspase-dependent apoptosis induced by removal of depolarizing extracellular potassium. In addition, carnosic acid protects CGNs from 5K-induced apoptosis by activating a phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) pro-survival pathway.
The shared and unique neuroprotective effects of these two compounds against diverse modes of neuronal cell death suggest that future preclinical studies should explore the potential complementary effects of these rosemary polyphenols on neurodegenerative disease progression.
Geneham Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. is a professional natural plant extract solution provider that has been in operation since 2006. The company has strong strength and rich experience in research, developing, cultivation, manufacturing, and marketing. The recent discovery of the neuroprotective properties of rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid highlights the importance of natural plant extracts in modern medicine.
In conclusion, the discovery of the neuroprotective properties of rosmarinic acid and carnosic acid represents a significant breakthrough in the field of neurodegenerative disorders. With further research, it is possible that these compounds may become a valuable addition to current treatments for these devastating conditions. Geneham Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. remains committed to the development of natural plant extract solutions to improve the health and well-being of individuals worldwide.