DEVELOPMENT OF A DIETARY SUPPLEMENT FOR IMPROVING THE COGNITIVE FUNCTIONS AND LOWERING THE HOMOCYSTEINE LEVELS

Abstract

Introduction. Hyperhomocysteinemia is a dangerous metabolic disorder that leads to a number of diseases. Problem Statement. Urgent task is to develop pharmaceutical product for lowering the homocysteine levels without causing side effects. Purpose. To develop the dietary supplement for reducing high homocysteine levels, which has a minimum content of components that may cause side effects; to test the supplement effect on the cognitive abilities of animals and to commercialize the product. Materials and Methods. The developed dietary supplement Alfacognitin contains vitamins B6, B9, B12, C, and choline. For modelling experimental hyperhomocysteinemia in rats, the animals are kept on a diet rich in L-methionine. Blood homocysteine concentrations are determined by the ion exchange liquid column chromatography method with the use of an automatic amino acid analyzer. The behavioral responses and cognitive abilities of the rats have been studied with the use of behavioral tests (open field test, fear conditioning test, and social interaction test). The production of Alfacognitin dietary supplement has been launched with Nutrimed Ltd. (Kyiv). Results. Alfacognitin has been shown to reduce homocysteine levels, to improve cognitive abilities, social interaction and communication skills, and to compensate functional memory and learning disorders in animals with hyperhomocysteinemia. Specifications for the dietary supplement have been approved, a pilot technology for obtaining the capsule form of the drug has been developed, and an experimental batch has been manufactured. Conclusions. Alfacognitin may reduce the homocysteine levels. Therefore, it may be used to normalize the functional state of the cardiovascular and nervous systems in patients with hyperhomocysteinemia, as well as to improve the cognitive functions, in particular in patients after COVID-19.