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Characterisation of the neuroprotective effects of ursolic acid using the Caenorhabditis elegans model
thesis
posted on 2021-07-16, 08:30authored byWENYUE WANG
Correct development and maintenance of neuronal architecture is required for proper brain function. In this thesis, I found a natural product, ursolic acid, exhibits remarkable neuroprotective effects. UA prevents the neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative defects in Caenorhabditis elegans. Mechanistically, the protective effects of UA against neurodegeneration act by modulating the sphingolipid metabolism to increase the production of sphingosine-1-phosphate, a neuroprotective sphingolipid. Specifically, enhanced S1P production in the intestine is essential for UA neuroprotection. Collectively, my results highlight the neuroprotective properties of UA and reveal a novel mechanism of UA neuroprotection that links intestinal sphingolipid metabolism modulation to neuronal health.