Neuropsychopharmacology. 2015 Jul;40(8):1877-87. |
Anemoside A3 Enhances Cognition through the Regulation of Synaptic Function and Neuroprotection.[Pubmed: 25649278] |
Compounds that have the ability to both strengthen synaptic function and facilitate neuroprotection are valuable cognitive enhancers that may improve health and quality of life, as well as retard age-related cognitive deterioration. Medicinal plants are an abundant source of potential cognitive enhancers. METHODS AND RESULTS: Here we report that Anemoside A3 (AA3) isolated from Pulsatilla chinensis modulates synaptic connectivity in circuits central to memory enhancement. Anemoside A3 specifically modulates the function of AMPA-type glutamate receptors (AMPARs) by increasing serine phosphorylation within the GluA1 subunit, which is a modification required for the trafficking of GluA1-containing AMPARs to synapses. Furthermore, Anemoside A3 administration activates several synaptic signaling molecules and increases protein expressions of the neurotrophin brain-derived neurotrophic factor and monoamine neurotransmitters in the mouse hippocampus. In addition to acting through AMPARs, Anemoside A3 also acts as a non-competitive NMDA receptor (NMDAR) modulator with a neuroprotective capacity against ischemic brain injury and overexcitation in rats. These findings collectively suggest that AA3 possesses a unique ability to modulate the functions of both AMPARs and NMDARs. Concordantly, behavioral studies indicate that AA3 not only facilitates hippocampal long-term potentiation but also enhances spatial reference memory formation in mice. CONCLUSIONS: These multifaceted roles suggest that Anemoside A3 is an attractive candidate for further development as a cognitive enhancer capable of alleviating memory dysfunctions associated with aging and neurodegenerative diseases. |
Planta Med. 2003 Feb;69(2):171-4. |
Pulsatilloside A and anemoside A3 protect PC12 cells from apoptosis induced by sodium cyanide and glucose deprivation.[Pubmed: 12624827] |
METHODS AND RESULTS: Using sodium cyanide (NaCN) and glucose deprivation induced cell injury in PC12 as an injury model, we investigated the protective effects of pulsatilloside A and anemoside A 3 on neurons. The results showed that PC12 cells under the NaCN-injury and glucose deprivation would undergo apoptosis. Additions of pulsatilloside A and anemoside A 3, at dosages ranging from 0.1, 1 and 10 microg/ml, protected PC12 cells from apoptosis determined by MTT, LDH release analysis, and flow cytometry measurement. |