Memory and Cognition can be Improved by Jellyfish Protein, say Scientists
Scientists at the 2010 Alzheimer's Association International Conference in Honolulu have reported that the jellyfish protein, called 'apoaequorin' may actually be able to improve cognitive function in people who have memory problems.
We know by previous research that proteins that can bind with calcium are essential for the proper functioning of the human brain. It is also commonly known in the medical and scientific fraternity that levels of these calcium-binding proteins decline with age as well as in individuals who have Alzheimer's disease. As long as the appropriate levels of the calcium-binding proteins can be maintained, the neurons in the brain can be protected and the brain can function normally.
In a recent study commissioned by Quincy BioScience, which was randomized and placebo-controlled scientists administered either apoaequorin or placebo to 35 adults whose average age was 61 years and who had expressed memory concerns. After a period of 60 days, the adults who had taken the jellyfish protein showed a 14 percent improvement in cognitive testing scores when compared with those who took placebo.
According to Mark Underwood, president and co-founder of Quincy Bioscience, the jellyfish proteins "work by buffering intracellular calcium and slowing down a variety of events that can lead to neurotoxicity," which can result in cognitive decline, including memory loss.
Bioscience has recently announced a successful application for patent protection on the jellyfish-derived protein. In the meantime, Bioscience has also announced that it has plans to conduct further research to develop pharmaceutical products for specific diseases related to calcium imbalance, one of which is Alzheimer's disease as well as other conditions that involve memory problems. The company is also said to be planning a future trial to include diagnosed Alzheimer's patients.
Underwood believes that given the growing baby boomer population, "there is an enormous need for products to help support brain health." He and the company hope that jellyfish proteins hold much promise for preventing and treating memory loss and other cognitive challenges.
There is no doubt that the baby boomer generation will benefit immensely from this scientific advances. To think that the older generations of today are now getting help from one of the oldest species in the world is truly heartening. There is, of course, a lot more research to be done in this area, but the results of these initial trials are extremely heartening.
Link: http://www.emaxhealth.com/1275/jellyfish-protein-may-improve-memory-cognition
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