Mulberry (Morus atropurpureaL.) has multiple biological and
physiological effects, as well as hypoglycemic, hypotensive and
diuretic effects because of the abundant content of the anthocyanins
and phenolics. It is suggested that the supplementation of mulberry
leaf extract diet has a preventive effect against an STZ-induced
diabetic phenomenon in rats[16]. Recently, mulberry juice has been
shown to have the ability to reduce elevated plasma levels of lipid
peroxide in mice loaded with water immersion restraint stress[17].
Active compounds have been separated from the mulberries that have
antidiabetic properties [18]. Furthermore, anthocyanin-rich fruits
have been described that show memory improvement efficacy in
animal models [19]. Importantly, mulberry leaf extracts prevents
amyloid fibril formation and shows neuroprotective effects [20].
However, the suppressive or preventive effects of mulberry on ageassociated deficits in memory and the antioxidant capacity of
mulberries have not yet been discussed in SAMP8 mice.
Free radical theory strengthens the hypothesis that ageing occurs
by the accumulation of oxidative damage, such as DNA mutation, and
lipid and protein dysfunction. Epidemiological research reveals that
the consumption of antioxidant phytochemicals shows benefits for
oxidative stress-induced damage [21]. Herein, we investigated
whether supplementation of mulberry extracts (ME), which is rich
in nutraceuticals including phenolic compounds and flavonoids, could
protect the liver from age-associated antioxidant decline and protect
the brain from cognitive deficits in SAMP8 mice. The antioxidant
capacity of the liver and brain was evaluated, and the serum
biochemical values were examined. Moreover, the signal transduction
molecules involved were also discussed.