Pterostilbene for Alzheimer's Disease
Also known as: Dimethylresveratrol, trans-3,5-Dimethoxy-4'-hydroxystilbene
Pterostilbene has 4x better oral bioavailability than resveratrol with similar SIRT1/Nrf2 activation for AD neuroprotection.
Mechanism of Action
Pterostilbene activates SIRT1 more potently than resveratrol due to dimethylated structure improving lipophilicity and metabolic stability. It promotes autophagic Aβ clearance, reduces tau phosphorylation, activates Nrf2, and inhibits NF-κB-driven neuroinflammation.
General mechanism: Dimethylated stilbenoid. SIRT1 activator (4x bioavailability of resveratrol), Nrf2 activator, NF-κB inhibitor, epigenetic modulator.
Current Evidence
Preclinical AD models show superior cognitive protection vs resveratrol. Human studies show improved working memory and reduced anxiety. Better pharmacokinetics support clinical translation.
Clinical Status: Phase I/II for cognitive health. Superior pharmacokinetics to resveratrol.
Safety Profile
Very safe. Well-tolerated at 250mg/day in clinical trials. No significant side effects. Present in blueberries.
Key Research Questions
- Does pterostilbene outperform resveratrol clinically for AD neuroprotection?
- Can pterostilbene activate brain SIRT1 sufficiently for disease modification?