Research Topic: cognitive function

Quercetin hybrid-hydrogel microparticles modulate gut microbiota and improve memory in an antibiotic-induced dysbiosis rat model

A natural quercetin supplement formulated with fenugreek fiber was tested on rats with antibiotic-damaged gut bacteria. The supplement successfully restored healthy gut bacteria diversity, reduced gut inflammation, and improved memory performance. These benefits likely work through the gut-brain connection, where healthy bacteria produce beneficial chemicals that support brain function and reduce inflammation.

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Fermented Rice Bran: A Promising Therapeutic Agent Against High-Fat Diet-Induced Metabolic Disorders

Fermented rice bran, created by fermenting rice byproduct with beneficial bacteria, shows promise in helping manage weight and blood sugar levels in studies using rats on high-fat diets. The fermentation process increases the nutritional value of rice bran by boosting protein, fiber, and antioxidant content. Animals supplemented with fermented rice bran for 8 weeks showed improved cognitive function, better liver health, and improved lipid profiles compared to those on high-fat diets alone.

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Psilocybin microdosers demonstrate greater observed improvements in mood and mental health at one month relative to non-microdosing controls

This study followed nearly 1000 people who microdose psilocybin (small regular doses of psilocybin mushrooms) and compared them to 180 people who don’t microdose over one month. Microdosers showed greater improvements in mood, depression, anxiety, and stress compared to the control group. Interestingly, when older adults combined psilocybin with lion’s mane mushrooms and niacin, they showed better improvements in motor control and speed. The effects were fairly consistent across different ages and genders, suggesting psilocybin microdosing may have real benefits for mental health.

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Ayahuasca enhances the formation of hippocampal-dependent episodic memory without impacting false memory susceptibility in experienced ayahuasca users: An observational study

Researchers studied how ayahuasca affects memory in experienced Santo Daime church members who use it regularly. Surprisingly, instead of impairing memory like other psychedelics typically do, ayahuasca enhanced people’s ability to remember details of events they witnessed. Importantly, the drug did not make people more susceptible to false memories or memory distortions, even though the entire study occurred while participants were under its acute effects.

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Efficacy and safety of MT104, a dietary supplement based on Cuscuta seeds and heat‐killed probiotics, on cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment: A 12‐week, multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled clinical trial

Researchers tested a dietary supplement called MT104 made from Cuscuta seeds and special probiotics to see if it could improve memory and thinking in people with mild cognitive impairment, an early stage before dementia develops. In a 12-week study with 200+ participants, those taking MT104 showed better memory recall and overall cognitive function compared to those taking a placebo. The supplement appeared to be safe with no serious side effects, suggesting it could be a helpful natural approach to slow the progression toward Alzheimer’s disease.

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The Acute and Chronic Effects of Lion’s Mane Mushroom Supplementation on Cognitive Function, Stress and Mood in Young Adults: A Double-Blind, Parallel Groups, Pilot Study

This study examined whether Lion’s mane mushroom supplements could improve thinking speed and reduce stress in healthy young adults. Researchers found that a single dose improved how quickly people completed a mental challenge, and four weeks of daily supplements showed a trend toward reducing subjective stress. However, the study was small and found mixed results, including some negative effects on memory tasks, so more research with larger groups is needed to confirm these findings.

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Screening of active components of Ganoderma lucidum and decipher its molecular mechanism to improve learning and memory disorders

Researchers used computer analysis and laboratory experiments to understand how a medicinal mushroom called Ganoderma lucidum (reishi) helps improve memory and learning problems. They identified ten key active ingredients in the mushroom that work together to reduce inflammation in the brain and protect nerve cells. The most important ingredient appears to be a compound called β-sitosterol, which helps prevent memory loss similar to effects seen in Alzheimer’s disease.

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Editorial: Dietary polysaccharides and brain health

This editorial examines how eating foods rich in polysaccharides, such as grains, fruits, and mushrooms, may help protect brain health and cognitive function as we age. The research suggests these foods work through the gut microbiota, which communicates with the brain via the gut-brain axis. While single fiber sources show modest effects, combining different types of fermentable fibers may be more effective for improving memory and preventing age-related cognitive decline.

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Benefits, side effects, and uses of Hericium erinaceus as a supplement: a systematic review

Lion’s Mane mushroom shows promising benefits for brain health, potentially improving memory and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. It may help prevent cancer by triggering cancer cell death and supports digestive health by promoting beneficial gut bacteria. While generally safe, some people experience mild side effects like stomach discomfort or headaches, making it an accessible supplement for overall wellness.

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Glutamate-specific gene linked to human brain evolution enhances synaptic plasticity and cognitive processes

Scientists discovered that a human gene called GLUD2, which evolved as our brains expanded, makes synapses stronger and more plastic through a lactate-dependent process. When they added this gene to mice, the animals showed improved memory, better learning ability, and stronger brain connections. This research suggests that GLUD2 played a key role in the evolution of human intelligence by enhancing the brain’s ability to form new neural connections and adapt to new information.

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