Substance from Hericium erinaceus
Study shows that Hericium erinaceus contains a substance that improves nerve development and memory, it is suitable for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease.Researchers at the University of Queensland have discovered an unusual active compound in the pondweed mushroom from the order of the dyer's mushroom. It accelerates nerve growth and improves memory. Laboratory tests and preclinical trials showed that the mushroom extract promotes nerve cell development and connections between them in cultures of brain cells.
Scientists measured the neurotrophic effects of compounds isolated from Hericium erinaceus on cultured brain cells. Experiments showed that the active compounds promoted neuronal projection (growth and proliferation of axons), their expansion and connection to other nerve cells.
Biologists used super-resolution microscopy to study how these active substances affect the nervous system. They placed cultures of brain cells under a super-resolution microscope and exposed them to an extract from the urchin. The analysis showed that the mushroom's active components increased the size of the growth cones. These are areas of the brain cells that help them "explore their environment" and make new connections.
Scientists were able to identify two main substances in the mushrooms that are responsible for these effects: N-dephenylethylisohericerin and gericene A. The authors of the work believe that these active substances can be used to treat and protect against neurodegenerative cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
Elderberry is an edible mushroom in the family Gericiaceae of the order of the dyer's mushroom. The rounded fruit of this mushroom, covered with "spines", resembles a hedgehog hanging from a tree. Because of its unusual shape, the hedgehog is called a "grandfather's beard" or a "lion's mane". In the wild, these mushrooms are found in North America, Europe and Asia. In Russia, they are most common in Primorye, Khabarovsk Territory and Amur Region and in the foothills of the Caucasus.
Ezhovik extract has been used to boost the immune system and improve digestion in Chinese medicine, but it was not yet known how this medicine works and what the results of its use are.