Study shows that TurmXTRA and Prolanza may have neuroprotective properties

In a recent press release, Nutriventia disclosed results from a study published in Pharmacognosy Research explored the neuroprotective benefits of TurmXTRA and Prolanza. The study was published in the journal, Pharmacognosy Research.¹

When under consistent oxidative stress, there is the potential for brain function impairment, according to the company’s press release which also mentioned that supplementing with herbs may help with the management of neurodegenerative disorders.

“While the existing body of research on curcumin and ashwagandha's role in neuroprotection is extensive, our primary motivation was to conduct rigorous studies specifically confirming these vital effects for our flagship brands, TurmXTRA and Prolanza,” Dr. Shefali Thanawala, Assistant Vice President, Medical Science and Research, Nutriventia, said in the press release.

To conduct the study, researchers used zebrafish (Danio rerio) that were exposed to B[a]P over the course of seven days. From there, the zebrafish were given TurmXTRA or Prolanza. The results were then analyzed and compared with the control group that received Levodopa. Following this, the zebrafish were given a novel tank diving test to help assess anxiety-like behavior. Researchers found that when stress-related behaviors were induced, neurotoxins were then reduced. The press release mentioned, “Fish that were administered the herbs showed overall improvement in mobility, faster speed swimming, higher exploration rate, further distance travelled and reduced freezing time (time being inert).”

The study authors concluded, “Both plant extracts evaluated in this study were novel and this study demonstrates neuroprotective potential of these novel nutraceutical ingredients, TurmXTRA and Prolanza against B[a]P-induced neurodegeneration.”¹

Data from the study showed that TurmXTRA and Prolanza may help with the reduction ofoxidative stress that has been caused from benzo[a]pyrene.

The study said that “Exposure to B[a]P for seven days reduced the locomotor activity of zebrafish and increased their preference for the lighter part of the glass tank. A notable increase in locomotor activity and higher preference for diving towards lower zone of tank was observed in the zebrafish treated with WDTE60N or AshwaSR. The histopathological findings showed that supplementation with these herbal formulations resulted in reduction in congestion of the corpus cerebella region of adult zebrafish brain.”¹

Dr. Thanawala commented in the press release, “These results are an exciting and definitive step in our translational research pathway. The reconfirmation of Prolanza's neuroprotective action, coupled with the consistent positive findings across both behavioural and histopathological tests in the experimental species, provides robust scientific evidence for its role in cognition support and neuroprotection. We are equally encouraged by the similar potential displayed by TurmXTRA, reinforcing our portfolio of ingredients designed to genuinely support healthy brain function."

“This study demonstrated that standard doses of WDTE60N and AshwaSR ameliorate the adverse effects of B[a]P. It indicates that these novel herbal formulations offer protection to the brain against B[a]P-induced oxidative stress and subsequent neurodegeneration by maintaining antioxidant concentrations. The study elucidates the neuroprotective roles of curcumin and ashwagandha against B[a]P-induced biochemical and pathological alterations in the zebrafish brain, with AshwaSR being more effective than WDTE60N in counteracting B[a]P-induced neurodegeneration, according to the findings of the current zebrafish model study,” the study explained.¹

“We strongly believe in fostering academic collaboration and harnessing the innovative potential of young scientific minds. This successful study, conducted in partnership with a leading academic institute, exemplifies our commitment to both scientific validation and nurturing future research talent,” Dr. Thanawala added.

Reference

1. Lokhande, et al.: Neuroprotective Studies of Modified Turmeric and Ashwagandha Extract Using Zebrafish Model Pharmacognosy Research 2025 Vol. 17, Issue 4, https://www.phcogres.com/article/2025/17/4/105530pres20252280