Regular spice can protect the brain during chemotherapy, scientists found

Rosemary extract may alleviate memory and attention impairments that occur in patients undergoing chemotherapy. Scientists from Ain Shams University in Egypt came to this conclusion after studying the effect of plant extract on cognitive functions when using anti-tumor drugs.

As reported by BAKU.WS with reference to the journal Food & Function, during experiments, researchers induced cognitive impairments in rats using oxaliplatin - a chemotherapeutic agent widely used in clinical practice, known for its neurological side effects. After this, the animals were administered rosemary extract - both in the usual alcohol form and in the form of nanoparticles to increase bioavailability.

In both forms, rosemary reduced damage to the hippocampus - the brain region responsible for learning and memory, and also weakened the deterioration of behavior, memory, and ability to concentrate. Biochemical analysis showed that the extract restored the antioxidant protection of nervous tissue, reduced inflammation, and suppressed the activation of molecular pathways associated with neuronal death.

In addition, under the influence of rosemary, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway was activated, which plays an important role in preserving the structure and functions of the brain. The researchers note that the extract did not reduce the antitumor efficacy of oxaliplatin, which is especially important for its potential clinical application.

The authors emphasize that, despite the long-term use of rosemary in traditional medicine, this work is one of the first studies to demonstrate in detail its neuroprotective potential during chemotherapy. So far, the results have only been obtained in animals, but they point to the promise of food plants as a basis for auxiliary agents that can reduce the neurological side effects of anti-cancer treatment.