Neuroprotective Activity of p-Terphenyl Leucomentins from the Mushroom Paxillus panuoides

Abstract

  The neuroprotective mechanism of p-terphenyl leucomentins from the mushroom Paxillus panuoides was studied. Leucomentins showed potent inhibition of lipid peroxidation and H₂O₂ neurotoxicity, but free from any role as reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavengers. Iron-mediated oxidative damage has been implicated in these processes, as a provider of ROS via iron. Leucomentins can chelate iron when DNA is present with iron and H₂O₂, and so inhibiting DNA single strand breakage. These results suggest that the neuroprotective action of leucomentins is dependent on their ability to chelate iron.