Title:An Open-label Exploratory Study Investigating BDNF Essentials® on
Cognition in Healthy Adults with Self-reported Memory Complaints
Volume: 4
Author(s): Erin D. Lewis, David C. Crowley, Debby Hamilton, Najla Guthrie and Malkanthi Evans*
Affiliation:
- KGK Science Inc., London, Ontario, Canada
Keywords:
Cognition, BDNF, stress, inflammation, nutraceutical, dietary supplement.
Abstract:
Background: An open-label, exploratory study has been conducted to investigate the efficacy
of BDNF Essentials® for cognitive function and neurological health.
Methods: Twenty healthy adults ≥45 years of age, with a score ≥24 on the Mini-Mental State Examination
(MMSE-2) and self-reported memory complaints were supplemented with BDNF Essentials
® for 84 days. Computerized Mental Performance Assessment System (COMPASS) tests
for memory, attention, and processing speed were conducted, and change in plasma brain-derived
neurotrophic factor (BDNF), Profile of Mood States (POMS), the Healthy People Sleep Quality
Index (HPSQI), perceived stress scale (PSS), and salivary cortisol, interleukin (IL)-6, and tumour
necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were assessed at baseline and days 28, 56, and 84.
Results: Supplementation with BDNF Essentials® significantly increased COMPASS tests for
memory, attention, and processing speed (all p < 0.05). Salivary cortisol was found to be significantly
decreased at days 56 and 84 (p < 0.05), and IL-6 decreased at day 84 (P > 0.05). A reduction
in depression-dejection at day 56 and in confusion-bewilderment at day 84, and an improvement
in sleep satisfaction at day 56 (all p < 0.05) were reported.
Conclusion: BDNF Essentials® improved reaction time in measures of working memory, episodic
memory, and attention, reduced biomarkers of stress and inflammation, and improved mood and
sleep. BDNF Essentials® has been found to be safe and well-tolerated in adults with self-reported
memory complaints.
