Abstract
Naturido is a cyclic peptide present in the extract of a fungus (Isaria japonica = Paecilomyces tenuipes) grown on silkworm pupae (Bombyx mori) that reportedly enhances astrocyte proliferation and improves spatial learning ability. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of Naturido on cognitive function in humans. We conducted a randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, parallel-group study of 90 healthy volunteers (33 men and 57 women, 40–70 years old, including those with mild cognitive impairment). Subjects consumed either a capsule containing 0.96 mg or 1.92 mg Naturido as the test food (provided by DKS Co. Ltd.) or a capsule not containing Naturido as the placebo. Cognitrax and eye-tracking tests were used to assess cognitive function before and 6 and 12 weeks after consumption of the test food. In the Cognitrax test, consumption of 0.96 mg Naturido significantly improved visual memory, psychomotor speed, and motor speed compared to consumption of the placebo. No adverse events attributable to the test food were observed in any participant during the study. Our results indicate that the continuous intake of Naturido improves cognitive function in healthy subjects (normal subjects and those with mild cognitive impairment).
Brain Supplement 2022; 4: 13-26
