Neuro-Molecule
Sarmentosin is a newly discovered natural molecule in Ribes nigrum (blackcurrants). It has gained attention for its potential therapeutic applications, including recently as an inhibitor of monoamine oxidase (MAO), an enzyme involved in the metabolism of neurotransmitters.
Research has highlighted the ability of Sarmentosin to inhibit MAO-B, a subtype of the enzyme, suggesting its role in supporting neurotransmitter levels.
World First Discoveries
The MAO Enzyme
Sarmentosin was discovered in Neuroberry blackcurrants by a team of independent New Zealand scientists working with Ārepa.
Previous research[1] had demonstrated that when people consume Neuroberry Blackcurrant an enzyme called monoamine oxidase (MAO) was inhibited in a safe an effective manner.
MAO enzymes act like a “pacman” in the brain, as they and are responsible for breaking down neurotransmitters like dopamine, serotonin and noradrenaline – neurotransmitters responsible for mood and motivation among other cognitive functions.
MAO Inhibition
A follow up study found that when people consume the Neuroberry containing sarmentosin, MAO was inhibited within 10 minutes and the effect lasted for 8 hours[2].
Further research at Callaghan Innovation, Ārepa then discovered that a molecule responsible for this MAO-inhibition effect is Sarmentosin which occurs naturally in Neuroberry[3].
World First Study
Ārepa in partnership with Plant and Food Research then performed the world’s first-in-human study of purified sarmentosin from Neuroberry. When volunteers consumed drinks containing 42 or 84 mg of pure sarmentosin (amounts found in 1-2 servings of Ārepa Performance ), their MAO was measured and the results confirmed that sarmentosin is responsible for the MAO inhibiting properties of neuroberry.
The MAO inhibition was associated with significantly improved mood, including participants’ ratings of ‘proficient’, ‘strong’, ‘quick-witted’, ‘attentive’, ‘energetic’, ‘well-coordinated’, and ‘tranquil’, along with significantly reduced ‘mental fatigue’ ratings.
Other Research:
MAO inhibitory properties:
Given its MAO inhibitory properties [1], sarmentosin is being investigated for various therapeutic applications, particularly in:
Neuroprotection: The compound's ability to modulate MAO activity suggests a role in protecting against neurodegenerative diseases.
Mental Health: By inhibiting MAO-B, sarmentosin may help regulate neurotransmitter levels, potentially benefiting conditions such as depression and anxiety.
Antioxidant Activity:
The compound exhibits antioxidant properties, which are vital for protecting cells from oxidative stress and related diseases.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Studies indicate that sarmentosin may possess anti-inflammatory properties, potentially aiding in the treatment of chronic inflammatory conditions.
Cancer Reserach:
Sarmentosin has been found to inhibit the mTOR signaling pathway and induce autophagy-dependent apoptosis in human hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells, suggesting its potential role in cancer therapy[4].
Antimicrobial Properties:
Sarmentosin has demonstrated effectiveness against various bacterial strains, making it a candidate for developing new antimicrobial agents.
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