Scientists at the University of Queensland have found that Lion’s Mane (Lion’s Mane) extract promotes brain cell growth and may improve memory. The results of the study are published in the Journal of Neurochemistry .
Biologists have discovered new active compounds from the fungus Hericium erinaceus , such as hericene A. Using ultra-high resolution microscopy, they have shown that the mushroom extract and its active components promote the growth of brain cells and the formation of connections between them. The tests were conducted on cells in the hippocampus, a part of the brain that plays an important role in turning short-term memories into long-term ones.
After experiments on cells, the scientists moved on to tests on mice. Animals fed H. erinaceus crude extract and hericene A had significantly improved memory.
The scientists believe their work will have applications in the treatment and protection against neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease.
