Previously, beneficial effects of Aronia Melanocarpa extract (AME) supplementation on cognitive performance has been observed in healthy middle-aged adults. However, underlying mechanisms have not yet been addressed. In addition, effects of AME are unknown in subjects at increased risk of cognitive impairment. It is hypothesized that supplementation with AME enhances (regional) brain vascular function and brain insulin-sensitivity, thereby improving cognitive function of subjects at increased risk of cognitive impairment. The primary objectives are to investigate effects of AME intake on brain vascular function and insulin-sensitivity in cognitive-control brain areas, while we will also evaluate changes in cognitive function (secondary objective). The present study is a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial consisting of two study groups and a pre- and post-test day in both study arms.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
PREVENTION
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
30
As described in experimental arm
As described in placebo comparator arm
Metabolic Research Unit Maastricht
Maastricht, Netherlands
Brain Vascular function
cerebral blood flow as quantified non-invasively by the MRI perfusion method arterial spin labeling (ASL MRI). Higher cerebral blood flow indicates improved brain vascular function.
Time frame: Change after 6 weeks of intervention
Brain insulin sensitivity
cerebral blood flow as quantified non-invasively by the MRI perfusion method arterial spin labeling (ASL MRI) before and after application of intranasal insulin (160 IU). Higher cerebral blood flow after intranasal insulin application indicates improved brain insulin sensitivity
Time frame: Change after 6 weeks of intervention
Cognitive performance
Quantified through the Cambridge Neuropsychological Test Automated Battery (CANTAB).
Time frame: Change after 6 weeks of intervention
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