- A kind of Triterpenoid Saponin
- An active compound that increases Neuroplasticity
Bacosides have been shown to increase the length and branching of dendrites (dendritic arborization) in neurons, particularly in brain regions associated with memory like the hippocampus
Neuroplasticity
Bacosides increase neuroplasticity and cognitive function through several distinct pathways:
- Synaptic Repair: They enhance kinase activity and new protein synthesis in brain regions associated with long-term memory, such as the hippocampus, aiding in the repair of damaged neurons and restoration of synaptic activity.
- Receptor Modulation: They regulate the surface expression of key neuroreceptors, including **AMPAR, NMDAR, and GABAR, which are essential for synaptic strength and plasticity.
- Membrane Stability: Bacosides prevent lipid peroxidation and maintain the structural integrity of neuronal membranes by enhancing the activity of membrane-bound ATPases (Na+/K+, Mg2+, and Ca2+ ATPases).
- Neurotransmitter Support: They increase acetylcholine (ACh) levels by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and stimulating choline acetyltransferase, the enzyme responsible for ACh synthesis.