Effects of a distinct phenolic complex on working memory performance in healthy men and women with age-associated memory impairment (P7.105)

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a patent-pending spearmint extract blend (Neumentix™) selectively bred for high rosmarinic acid (RA) and total phenolic content with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticholinesterase activity on cognitive function in a healthy population with Age-Associated Memory Impairment (AAMI). BACKGROUND: Cognitive declines associated with aging can be accompanied by structural and functional damage to mitochondria suggesting that antioxidants with the ability to penetrate the cell and mitochondrial membranes will provide optimal protection from oxidative stress and inflammation. Antioxidant molecules that have the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier (BBB) may have a beneficial role in decreasing oxidative damage in the brain. Spearmint is a natural botanical extract with the potential to supply high total phenolic content molecules to serve such a purpose. RA, a major bioactive and phenolic compound found in spearmint, is an important contributor to its antioxidant capacity and has been shown to cross the BBB. DESIGN/METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to investigate the effects of Neumentix on cognitive function in 50-70 year old men and women with AAMI. Ninety subjects received 900, 600, or 0 mg Neumentix q.d. for 90 days. Cognitive function was assessed at Days 0, 45, and 90 using the computerized Cognitive Drug Research (CDR) tool. RESULTS: Subjects in the 900 mg/day treatment group demonstrated improved overall quality of working memory (p=0.0469) and spatial working memory accuracy (p=0.0456) when compared to placebo. In addition, the 900 mg/day group showed a significant dose response effect compared to the 600 mg/day group for both variables (p=0.0212 and p=0.0172, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Neumentix demonstrated beneficial effects on working memory quality and accuracy compared to placebo in an AAMI population and suggests that this novel phenolic complex may be a potential nutritional intervention for normal age-associated cognitive decline. Study Supported by: Kemin Foods,L.C. Disclosure: Dr. Fonsec has received personal compensation for activities with Kemin Foods, L.C. as an employee. Dr. Herrlinger has received personal compensation for activities with Kemin Foods, L.C. as an employee. Dr. Nieman has received personal compensation for activities with Kemin Foods, L.C. as an employee. Dr. Ceddia has received personal compensation for activities with Kemin Industries, Inc. as an employee. Dr. Fullmer has received personal compensation for activities with Kemin Foods, L.C. as an employee. Dr. Sanoshy has received personal compensation for activities with Biofortis Clinical Research as an employee. Dr. Kelley has received personal compensation for activities with Biofortis Clinical Research as an employee. Dr. Maki has received personal compensation for activities with Midwest Center for Metabolic & Cardiovascular Research as an employee.