Water-soluble tomato concentrate alleviates neuron apoptosis though activating ERK/CREB/BDNF signaling pathway in ischemic stroke.
Zhou L, Yu M, Zhang Y, Sun X, Luo Y
Summary
8.0/10A tomato extract approved in Europe shows promise in protecting the brain from ischemic stroke damage in animal studies by activating protective signaling pathways. The findings suggest tomato-based supplements could become a safe, plant-derived approach to reducing stroke injury and promoting brain health.
Key Findings
Water-soluble tomato concentrate reduced infarct volume and improved neurological recovery in rat models of ischemic stroke
WSTC inhibited oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis in ischemic neurons
The neuroprotective effects were mediated through activation of the ERK/CREB/BDNF signaling pathway
Original Abstract
Ischemic stroke is a leading cause of mortality and disability worldwide, and there is an urgent need for safe dietary agents with neuroprotective potential. Water-soluble tomato concentrate (WSTC), a tomato-derived functional ingredient approved in Europe for cardiovascular health, was evaluated for its protective effects against cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury. Using a middle cerebral artery occlusion/reperfusion rat model and oxygen-glucose deprivation/reoxygenation neuronal model, we demonstrated that WSTC improved cerebral perfusion, reduced infarct volume, alleviated histopathological damage, and enhanced neurological recovery. Mechanistic studies integrating transcriptomics, network pharmacology, and molecular assays revealed that WSTC inhibited oxidative stress and neuronal apoptosis while activating the ERK/CREB/BDNF signaling pathway. These findings provide the first comprehensive evidence that WSTC confers multi-target neuroprotection and highlight its translational potential as a safe, plant-based functional food ingredient for promoting brain health and reducing ischemic injury.
Species Mentioned
The tomato is a plant whose fruit is an edible berry that is eaten as a vegetable. The tomato is a member of the nightshade family that includes tobacco, potato, and chili peppers. It originated from western South America, and may have been domesticated there, in Mexico, or in Central America. Th...
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