Salicornia extract protects the brain from ischemic damage

Original paper reference

  • Original title: Diet Supplementation with Polyphenol-Rich Salicornia ramosissima Extracts Protects against Tissue Damage in Experimental Models of Cerebral Ischemia
  • Published in: Nutrients, 2022, Vol. 14, Artículo 5077
  • DOI: 10.3390/nu14235077

Paper's abstract

This preclinical study investigated the neuroprotective effect of polyphenol-rich Salicornia ramosissima extracts against brain damage caused by ischemia in two experimental models. In both models, the ethanolic extract (S-EE), with the highest polyphenol content (46 mg GAE/g), showed significant protection:

  • It reduced mortality and improved locomotor activity after hypoxia.
  • Oral supplementation for 4 weeks reduced cerebral infarct volume, improved motor performance, and decreased plasma oxidative stress markers (such as 8-OHdG).
  • In addition, phytochemical profiling identified 50 bioactive compounds, including caffeoylquinic, quercetin, ferulic, linoleic, and cannabidiolic acids.

Key Points

  • First study to demonstrate neuroprotection of Salicornia ramosissima in stroke models.
  • Ethanolic extract (S-EE) with a high concentration of polyphenols and potent antioxidant effects.
  • Observed changes:
    • Reduced post-hypoxia mortality.
    • Improved motor activity after reoxygenation.
    • Decreased cerebral infarct volume.
    • Improved strength and movement after ischemia.
    • Significant reduction of oxidative damage in blood (8-OHdG).
  • Identification of compounds with neuroprotective properties: quercetin, ferulic acid, caffeic acid, cannabidiolic acid (CBDA), among others.
  • No apparent toxicity after 28 days of supplementation.
  • Supports the use of Salicornia as a preventative nutraceutical for neurovascular diseases.
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