New Study: Modified Citrus Pectin in Alzheimer’s 

As rates of Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases rise sharply, researchers continue to explore new compounds and novel ingredients that show promise in addressing the causes and consequences of these devastating inflammatory conditions.  

A new peer-reviewed study published in Current Issues in Molecular Biology demonstrates the effects of the researched form of Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP) against neuroinflammation, cognitive decline, and oxidative stress in an Alzheimer’s-type dementia model. Specifically, the research explores MCP’s ability to inhibit galectin-3—a key player in neuroinflammation—and in doing so, provide specific benefits against the impacts of this debilitating condition.1  

Researchers utilized a model of scopolamine-induced Alzheimer’s in adult Wistar rats. Subjects were divided into four groups: control (n=6), SCP group (n-7), SCP + MCP group (n=7), and MCP only (n=7). MCP was administered orally for 6 weeks. The Morris Water Maze Test was used to assess cognitive performance, and researchers analyzed brain and blood samples to measure oxidative stress markers, cytokines, and galectin-3 levels. 

Administration of SCP caused increased oxidative stress levels, elevated inflammatory markers including increased galectin-3, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-1β. The rats showed reduced cognitive performance including impaired spatial memory. However, administration of Modified Citrus Pectin ameliorated these impacts.  

Specifically, MCP administration showed a number of important benefits: 

• Reduced neuroinflammation: MCP treatment lowered galectin-3, TNF-α, and IL-6 levels.
• Improved cognitive function: Rats in the MCP and SCP+MCP groups performed better in the Morris Water Maze test, showing improved spatial memory.
• Enhanced antioxidant defense: SOD (superoxide dismutase) activity increased, indicating antioxidant effects.
• Increased BDNF levels, supporting its role in neuronal survival and memory enhancement.
• Reduced galectin-3 and less inflammation, supporting MCP’s neuroprotective potential. 

First Study to Show MCP’s Benefits in Alzheimer’s 

This study is one of the first to comprehensively explore the effects of Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP) on cognitive function, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress in an Alzheimer’s disease model. While previous studies have examined MCP’s effects in cancer, cardiovascular disease, and immune modulation, its direct role in neurodegenerative disorders, particularly through galectin-3 inhibition, has been less explored. 

Previous brain health studies on MCP have shown benefits in memory and cognition, and reduced neuroinflammation, as well as protection of the blood brain barrier.2,3  

These new findings demonstrate for the first time that Modified Citrus Pectin (MCP) significantly reduces neuroinflammation and improves cognitive function in an Alzheimer’s model, by inhibiting galectin-3—with measurable downstream benefits in key mechanisms supporting brain function. As research on MCP and galectin-3 in cognitive and neurological health continues to expand, we can expect additional data demonstrating clinically relevant benefits for key areas of health, including neurodegenerative and other age-related conditions.  

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