Polyphenols & the Oxidative System
Plant polyphenols function primarily as these in the brain’s oxidative system.
What are antioxidants
This type of meal increases tryptophan availability to the brain.
Mixed meals (TRP rich protein paired with carbs)
This epigenetic mechanism relaxes chromatin structure, allowing transcription machinery greater access to DNA.
Histone acetylation
This dietary pattern rich in olive oil is associated with reduced inflammation, cognitive decline, and Alzheimer's disease.
The Mediterranean diet
This term refers to the continuous bidirectional communication network integrating the gut microbiome, immune system, and central nervous system.
The gut-brain axis
This term refers to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species and antioxidant defenses.
What is oxidative stress
This neurotransmitter is synthesized from the amino acid tryptophan.
Serotonin
During transcription, a segment of DNA is copied into
mRNA
This biological system interacts extensively with the gut microbiome and releases signaling molecules that influence inflammation and brain function.
The immune system
This cranial nerve serves as the primary anatomical pathway transmitting neural signals between the gastrointestinal tract and the central nervous system.
The vagus nerve
Name one environmental factor that increases oxidative stress in the human body.
UV, pollution, pesticides, Western diet, stress, smoking
These brain structures contain the cell bodies (somas) of serotonin-producing neurons.
The raphe nuclei
This epigenetic modification involves the addition of a methyl group to DNA and typically reduces gene transcription.
DNA methylation
These immune signaling molecules released by activated immune cells can be pro- or anti-inflammatory and influence neural activity and brain function. They were reduced in participants consuming olive oil–rich diets.
Pro-inflammatory cytokines
This ratio has been associated with obesity in some studies, though findings remain controversial in the literature.
Firmicutes to Bacteroidetes ratio
These highly reactive molecules contribute to cellular damage and oxidative stress.
What are reactive oxygen species (ROS)
This primary excitatory neurotransmitter plays a critical role in learning, memory, and neuroplasticity.
Glutamate
It would increase protein!
This monounsaturated fatty acid (the main fat source in the Med diet) supports neuronal membrane stability.
Omega-9 oleic acid
These microbial metabolites are produced through fermentation of dietary fiber and contribute to immune regulation and brain health.
Short Chain Fatty Acids
This compound is one of the most potent antioxidants in olive oil and protects neurons.
What is hydroxytyrosol or oleocanthal
Name a neurotransmitter that is synthesized by the amino acid tyrosine.
dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine
If I add a methyl group to a gene, am I increasing or decreasing the expression of that gene?
Decreasing
These signals are transmitted from the gastrointestinal tract to the brain, facilitating sensory communication along the gut–brain axis.
Afferent signals
These two major phyla account for approximately 90% of the human gut microbiome and are central to discussions of microbial balance.
What are Firmicutes & Bacteroidetes