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A study conducted at the University of Copenhagen found that urolithin A, a compound naturally present in fruits such as pomegranates, strawberries, and walnuts, holds promise for enhancing memory and potentially mitigating the progression of Alzheimer's disease, offering newfound hope for patients grappling with cognitive decline.

Alzheimer's disease, characterized by forgetfulness, language difficulties, and disorientation, poses significant challenges in treatment due to its complex nature. However, the research led by Vilhelm Bohr, Affiliate Professor at the Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine at the University of Copenhagen and former Department Chair at the US National Institute on Aging, suggests a potential breakthrough.

"Our study on mouse models with AD shows that urolithin A, which is a naturally occurring substance in i.a. pomegranates, can alleviate memory problems and other consequences of dementia," Bohr said, as per Neuroscience News.

While the study was conducted on mouse models, the findings offer promising prospects for clinical applications. Previous research had already identified the role of nicotinamide riboside (NAD supplement) in facilitating the removal of damaged mitochondria from the brain, crucial for mitigating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.

"Many patients with neurodegenerative diseases experience mitochondrial dysfunction, also known as mitophagy. This means that the brain has difficulties removing weak mitochondria, which thus accumulate and affect brain function," explained Bohr. "If you are able to stimulate the mitophagy process, removing weak mitochondria, you will see some very positive results."

The study's results revealed that urolithin A, akin to NAD supplement, effectively eliminates weak mitochondria from the brain, potentially offering a therapeutic avenue for Alzheimer's disease.

Despite these promising findings, determining the optimal dosage of urolithin A remains a challenge. Bohr emphasized ongoing efforts to establish appropriate dosages, considering the compound's availability in pill form.

"We still cannot say anything conclusive about the dosage. But I imagine that it is more than a pomegranate a day. However, the substance is already available in pill form, and we are currently trying to find the right dosage," Bohr stated. He expressed optimism regarding the compound's potential preventive benefits with minimal adverse effects, citing previous studies indicating the safety of NAD supplementation.

"Our knowledge of urolithin A is more limited, but as I mentioned, clinical trials with Urolithin A have been effective in muscular disease, and now we need to look at Alzheimers disease," Bohr added, underscoring the importance of rigorous investigation to ensure the compound's safety and efficacy in mitigating Alzheimer's risk.