AsianScientist (Feb. 3, 2015) – The health-promoting perks of wine have attracted the spotlight recently, leaving beer in the shadows. But scientists are discovering new ways in which the latter could be a more healthful beverage than once thought.
A study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry has shown that a compound from hops could protect brain cells from damage and potentially slow the development of disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Professor Fang Jianguo and colleagues from Lanzhou University note that mounting evidence suggests that oxidative damage to neuronal cells contributes to the development of diseases that originate in the brain. If scientists could find a way to guard these cells from this type of damage, they might be able to help prevent or slow down Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.
One compound found in hops, called xanthohumol, has gotten the attention of researchers for its potential benefits, including antioxidation, cardiovascular protection and anticancer properties. Fang’s team decided to test xanthohumol’s effects on brain cells.
In lab tests, the researchers found that the compound could protect neuronal cells and potentially help slow the development of brain disorders. The scientists conclude xanthohumol could be a good candidate for fighting such conditions.
The article can be found at: Yao et al. (2015) Xanthohumol, a Polyphenol Chalcone Present in Hops, Activating Nrf2 Enzymes To Confer Protection against Oxidative Damage in PC12 Cells.
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Source: American Chemical Society; Photo: Shutterstock.
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