Allicin ameliorates cognitive deficits ageing-induced learning and memory deficits through enhancing of Nrf2 antioxidant signaling pathways.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that learning and memory abilities in the course of normal aging cognitive abilities tend to decline and Nrf2 expression appears to decline with aging. So, Nrf2 pathway has been identified as a promising therapeutic target for neurodegenerative diseases. The organosulfur compounds, allicin can activate Nrf2, because it has an electrophilic center, which can serve as an attack site for nucleophiles, such as specific protein sulfhydryl groups present on Keap1.

Allicin can reduce neuronal death and ameliorate the spatial memory impairment in Alzheimer's disease models.

Objective: To investigate the mechanisms and protective effects of allicin on learning and memory in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods: This study took place in the Institute of Medicine of Jishou University, Jishou, China, between January and September 2009. Allicin was given as preventive administration after AD was induced by amyloid beta (Aß[1-42]), and the protective effects of Allicin against learning and memory impairment were investigated.