Effects of the standardized Ginkgo biloba extract EGb 761® on neuroplasticity

Int Psychogeriatr. 2012 Aug:24 Suppl 1:S21-4. doi: 10.1017/S1041610212000592.

Abstract

Neuroplasticity, the ability of synapses to undergo structural adaptations in response to functional demand or dysfunctions is increasingly impaired in aging and Alzheimer's disease. EGb761® has been shown in several preclinical reports to increase nearly all aspects of impaired neuroplasticity (long-term potentiation, spine density, neuritogenesis, neurogenesis). While all three fractions of constituents (ginkgolides, flavonoids, bilobalide) seem to be active, the flavonoids and specifically the aglycone isorhamnetin seem to be most relevant.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Ginkgo biloba
  • Humans
  • Long-Term Potentiation / drug effects
  • Mitochondria / drug effects
  • Neurites / drug effects
  • Neurites / physiology
  • Neurogenesis / drug effects
  • Neuronal Plasticity / drug effects*
  • Plant Extracts / pharmacology*
  • Spinal Cord / drug effects
  • Spinal Cord / pathology

Substances

  • Plant Extracts
  • Ginkgo biloba extract