II. Indications
- No evidence supporting indications as of 2024
- Despite lack of evidence, marketed as a neuroprotective supplement (not FDA regulated)
- Age related memory and cognitive decline (false claim per FDA, forcing labeling changes)
- Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (no strong evidence of benefit)
III. Mechanism
- Aequorin (and Apoaequorin)
- Photoprotein isolated from the photocytes of bioluminescent Jellyfish Aequorea
- Aequorin (and Apoaequorin) are enzymes which bind the substrate coelenterazine, promoting its oxidation
- Apoaequorin refers to the enzyme when it is not bound to coelenterazine
- Aequorin refers to the enzyme when it is bound to coelenterazine
- Reaction emits visible light (blue glow) when trace amounts of Calcium Ion are present
- Apoaequorin Protein has three binding sites for Calcium Ion
- Apoaequorin is postulated to have neuroprotective effects
- Based on animal studies (direct brain infusions of Apoaequorin)
- However, taken as an oral supplement, likely has little benefit
IV. Dosing
- Adults: 10 mg daily
VI. Efficacy
- Limited evidence of improved verbal learning and delayed recall in patients with normal baseline cognition
- Other studies have shown no benefit in those with Cognitive Impairment
VII. Resources
- Apoaequorin (LiverTox)
- FDA curbs unfounded memory supplement claims (Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School)
VIII. References
- (2024) Presc Lett 31(1): 60