Characterization of the neuroprotective potential of Passion Fruit

Neurodegenerative diseases including Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease share common mechanisms of neurotoxic damage from reactive oxygen species. Evidence from animal and in vitro models suggests that natural compounds found in a variety of edible berries and fruits can mitigate such damage, and can therefore play an important role in a comprehensive approach to neuroprotection. Passiflora comprises a genus of perennial climbing vines that produce large attractive flowers resembling a crucifix and yield aromatic juicy fruit. Although anxiolytic properties of some Passiflora species have been described, their potential neuroprotective properties are not well characterized. We bred hybrid lines related to the commercially grown ‘Passion Dream’ variety and screened them for in-vitro cytoprotective properties. Cultured HT4 neurons were exposed to chemicals that normally cause cell death: low levels of hydrogen peroxide flux or elevated levels of extracellular glutamate. This screen identified a line with greater protective activity than either the commercial “Passion Dream” line or N-acetylcysteine, a known neuroprotective antioxidant. Results extending these findings in vivo will be presented.