The GBE used in these studies is comprised of four different phytochemicals that include flavone glycosides, terpenoids, proanthocyanidins and organic acids. Mechanistic studies designed to determine Ginkgo s role in the prevention and reversion of cognitive decline have strongly implicated antioxidant activities of Ginkgo flavonoids. These components have been shown to scavenge free radicals and act as antioxidants. Free radical oxidation reactions are believed to be part of the aging process and are presumed to be major contributors to mental decline.
Oxidative stress is implemented in the pathogenesis of several neurodegenerative disorders.
Ginkgolide B as a competitive inhibitor to receptor binding of PAF has been shown to inhibit most of these functions of PAF in experimental models. Mitochondria are organelles that produce the energy the cell needs to perform its cellular functions. When ATP levels are low in neuronal cells for extended time periods the neuronal cells are more susceptible to oxidative damage and may die, yielding eventual mental decline. The hallmark of this disease is the formation of amyloid b deposits in certain regions of the brain. Maurer, K., Ihl, R., Dierks, T., and Froelich, L. Clinical Efficacy of Ginkgo biloba Special Extract EGb 761 in Dementia of the Alzheimer Type.