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June 9, 2008 Update #76 |
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WILL THEANINE PROTECT THE BRAIN FROM ENVIRONMENTAL TOXINS?
Background
Previous studies have suggested that environmental toxins
including certain pesticides may increase one's risk of Parkinson's Disease
(PD). PD is believed to be caused by the destruction of critical dopaminergic
neurons in a small part of the brain called the substantia nigra.
Hypothetically, any agent that would protect these neurons would reduce or
prevent PD.
Note: Rotenone is a broad-spectrum insecticide associated
with PD in rats. Dieldrin is a long-term, chlorinated hydrocarbon, closely
related to the known carcinogen naphthalene. Dieldrin has recently been
linked to PD.
Featured Research Study
Protective effect of the green tea component, l-theanine on environmental toxins-induced neuronal cell death.
Neurotoxicology. 2008 Mar 20. Cho HS, et.al.
Click Here for PubMed Abstract of Study
Study Highlights
This study employed a human dopaminergic cell line. This
study found that theanine (l-theanine) protected the neurotoxic affect of
PD-related neurotoxicants, rotenone and dieldrin. It concluded that "l-theanine
directly provide(s) neuroprotection against PD-related neurotoxicants and may
be clinically useful for preventing PD symptoms."
Comments
Previous studies have suggested a protective affect of
green tea polyphenols. This one is different in that it suggests a
protective affect of the biogenic amino acid theanine.
Ask your tea professional to guide you toward enjoyable tea options.
Ask your health professional to guide you toward viable health options.
Dr. Paul's Tea & Health Update, WWW.DRPAULSUPDATES.ORG, supports tea and health educational programs by bringing recent research studies into public awareness.
Copyright © 2008 Dr. Paul's School of Tea and Health, LLC. All rights reserved.
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