Compound in Berries and Nuts May Help Combat Alzheimer's Disease

Photo byPhoto by Roberto Carlos Román Don on Unsplash

Researchers have discovered that urolithin A, a compound found in foods like pomegranates, strawberries, and walnuts, has beneficial effects in models of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Building on previous findings with nicotinamide riboside (NR), which aids in mitochondrial health, this study focused on urolithin A's ability to enhance the brain's ability to clear damaged cells and proteins associated with AD.

In Alzheimer's, impaired mitochondrial function leads to dysfunctional mitochondria and cellular waste buildup, contributing to disease progression. By stimulating a process called mitophagy, urolithin A helps remove weak mitochondria and facilitates the breakdown of molecular debris, potentially slowing down the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles in the brain.

In experiments with AD model mice, long-term urolithin A treatment improved cognitive functions such as learning, memory, and sense of smell. It was found to regulate the activity of cathepsin Z, a protein implicated in inflammation and waste breakdown processes, by reducing the overactivity of cathepsin Z, urolithin A normalized cellular processes involved in clearing biological waste, akin to levels observed in healthy brains.

Moreover, urolithin A was observed to modulate immune responses and other pathways specific to Alzheimer's disease, suggesting broader therapeutic potential. Unlike synthetic drugs, natural substances like urolithin A carry fewer risks of side effects, making them promising candidates for therapeutic use.

However, while these findings are promising, they are based on animal models and clinical studies are needed to confirm these effects in humans. Researchers are optimistic about translating these findings into clinical trials to determine the optimal dosage and effectiveness of urolithin A in treating Alzheimer's disease. Thus, while adding pomegranates and other sources of urolithin A to one's diet may not cure or prevent Alzheimer's, they could support ongoing efforts to manage the disease by enhancing cellular cleaning processes in the brain.