How Grape Seed Extracts Stop Alzheimer’s Plaque

Earlier this year researchers published data showing that grape seed extract polyphenols antioxidant shown to affect cell-to-cell signaling, receptor sensitivity, inflammatory enzyme activity or gene regulation. Found in many different fruits, vegetables, red wine, grains, honey, and legumes. could prevent Alzheimer’s plaque¹ from forming in mice.  In their latest experiments² they sought to determine exactly how grape seed extract was able to work its magic. 

Using advanced technology (CD spectroscopy, photo-induced cross-linking of unmodified proteins, thioflavin T fluorescence, size exclusion chromatography, and electron microscopy) the researchers identified how grape seed extracts prevented the formation of disease-related amyloid β-protein (Aβ40 and Aβ42).

The researchers found that it was rather simple.  The grape seed extracts simply prevented amyloid proteins from folding into shapes that form plaque.  If they can’t fold they can’t form.  While these are animal studies and human trials will now get under way, the research is significant to tens of millions of Americans.

The authors summarized their findings “If the Aß proteins can’t assemble, toxic aggregates can’t form, and thus there is no toxicity. Our work in the laboratory, and Mt. Sinai’s Dr. Giulio Pasinetti’s work in mice, suggest that administration of the compound to Alzheimer’s patients might block the development of these toxic aggregates, prevent disease development and also ameliorate existing disease.”