Anti-Aging and Neurorescue Effects of Loquat in Caenorhabditis elegans and Electrochemical Quantification of Dopamine Neurotransmitter

Abstract

Loquat (Eriobotrya japonica Lindl.), a semitropical fruit tree originating from Southeast Asia, is highly valued in traditional folk medicine. Despite this, its potential antiaging and anti-Parkinson's effects have yet to be thoroughly explored. This research delves into the neuroprotective and antiaging attributes of loquat, employing the Caenorhabditis elegans model. Loquat, containing a significant amount of primary and secondary metabolites, has been shown to enhance the lifespan, healthspan, and food-sensing behavior of C. elegans. In addition to having antioxidant properties, loquat lowered reactive oxygen species levels by stimulating stress response genes. Additionally, loquat mitigates lipofuscin, lipid deposition, and germline apoptosis, safeguards dopaminergic neurons, and reduces α-synuclein aggregation. Electrochemical analysis demonstrate that loquat restored dopamine levels. Moreover, loquat showed functional enhancements in dopamine-dependent behaviors. The extension of longevity by loquat involves the upregulation of DAF-16 and SKN-1 target genes. This study underscores the therapeutic promise of loquat in mitigating aging and Parkinson's disease.