The neuroprotective potential of phenolic-enriched fractions from four Juniperus species found in Portugal

The increase in population lifespan has enhanced the incidence of neurodegenerative diseases, for which there is, as yet, no cure.We aimed to chemically characterize phenolic-enriched fractions (PEFs) from four wild Juniperus sp. found in Portugal (Juniperus navicularis, Juniperus oxycedrus badia, Juniperus phoenicea and Juniperus turbinata) and address their potential as sources of natural products for treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.Leaves from the four Juniperus sp. evaluated contained a range of phenolic components which differed quantitatively between the species. The PEFs obtained were rich sources of phenolic compounds, exhibited acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitory activity and also displayed effective intracellular radical scavenging properties in neurons submitted to oxidative injury but showed a different order of effectiveness compared to AChE inhibition. These properties made them good candidates for testing in a neurodegeneration cell model. Pre-incubation with J. oxycedrus badia PEF for 24 h protected neurons from injury in the neurodegeneration cell model.

► The four species had mainly quantitative differences in phenolic composition.
► PEFs from Juniperus sp. exhibited acetylcholinesterase inhibitory activity.
► Juniperus sp. PEFs diminished ROS levels in neurons.
► Juniperus oxycedrus badia PEF protected neurons in a neurodegeneration cell model.