The Effect of Black Mulberry (Morus Nigra) Consumption on Cognitive Functions

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of black mulberry on cognitive functions and biochemical parameters in patients with Alzheimer's disease. The study was conducted in a tertiary geriatric outpatient clinic with 44 patients aged over 65 years who were diagnosed with mild-to-moderate AD. The study was completed by 20 participants in the intervention group and 19 participants in the control group. The intervention group was administered 20 grams of black mulberry concentrate per day for 12 weeks. There was no intervention in the control group (n=19). Routine medical treatment for all participants was continued throughout the study. During the evaluation of the cognitive situation, Mini-Mental State Assessment (MMSA) and AD Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog) test were administered. Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS-15) was used to screen for depression symptoms. In order to evaluate antioxidant capacity in serum samples Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme, Total Oxidant Status (TOS), Total Antioxidant Status (TAS), and oxidative stress index level were examined. Furthermore, in order to evaluate lipid oxidation, Malondialdehyde (MDA) level was examined. For the evaluation of inflammation, serum Interleukin 1-beta (IL-1 beta) and Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) levels were measured.