The Flavonoid Fisetin Promotes ERK-Dependent Long-Term Potentiation and Enhances Memory
Maher P, Akaishi T, Abe K
Published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Abstract
Study demonstrating fisetin enhances memory through ERK-dependent long-term potentiation. Shows neuroprotective effects and memory improvement in aging mice, suggesting potential for cognitive decline prevention.
Methodology
Preclinical study combining rat hippocampal slice electrophysiology with in vivo object-recognition memory testing in mice, plus cell-culture work on ERK/CREB signalling.
Key Findings
Fisetin activated the ERK-CREB signalling pathway in cultured neurons, facilitated long-term potentiation in rat hippocampal slices, and improved object-recognition memory in mice given oral fisetin. Effects were blocked by MEK inhibitors, confirming ERK dependence.
Conclusions
Fisetin enhances hippocampal long-term potentiation and memory in rodents through ERK-dependent signalling, establishing a mechanistic rationale for investigating it as a cognitive agent.
Limitations
Entirely preclinical; no human data. Fisetin has low oral bioavailability in humans, so rodent dosing does not translate directly. Object-recognition memory in mice is a limited proxy for human cognition.
Supplements Studied
Fisetin activated the ERK-CREB signalling pathway in cultured neurons, facilitated long-term potentiation in rat hippocampal slices, and improved object-recognition memory in mice given oral fisetin. Effects were blocked by MEK inhibitors, confirming ERK dependence.
Outcomes Measured
Fisetin enhances memory through ERK-dependent long-term potentiation and shows neuroprotective effects and memory improvement in aging mice.
Study Details
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