MemoProve™ Frequently Asked Questions What is MemoProve™? MemoProve™ is a unique natural health product ingredient composed of peptone-based neuropeptides, N-PEP-12, which are produced enzymatically from purified nerve cell proteins. The neuropeptides of NPEP-12 bolster the function of nerve cells by mimicking the effects of neurotrophic factors in the brain and counteract the neurodegenerative changes that occur in the aging brain by providing protective support for the neurons in the brain. How does MemoProve™ work? The observed cognitive decline that comes along with aging is associated with detectable morphological and structural neurodegenerative changes. These changes include neuronal and synaptic loss as well as neurofibrillary tangle formation, which are also known hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease pathology. In vitro experiments using tissue cultures of neurons have proven that the N-PEP-12 neuropeptides of MemoProve™ resemble the properties of naturally occurring peptide growth factors which act by protecting vulnerable neurons against metabolic deficits, ischaemic episodes and the neurodegenerative processes of the aging brain. Thus, by acting as a neurotrophic factor, MemoProve™ helps to preserve the neuronal network in the brain and protects the neurons against cell stress and lesions that occur during the aging process. What scientific studies have been performed with MemoProve™? A number of scientific studies have been performed to investigate the efficacy and safety of MemoProve™. These studies included: a- In vitro study1 using primary cultures of cortical neurons pre-treated with N-PEP-12 and subjected to various types of cellular lesions and stress simulating conditions that occur in the aging brain. Results from this study clearly indicated a neuroprotective effect of N-PEP-12 with a dosedependent protection of neurons in all lesion models. Cell viability was significantly increased by N-PEP-12 treatment as compared to control cell cultures. b- In vivo animal study2 where the effects of oral N-PEP-12 intake on memory and learning performance were investigated in aged (18-months-old) rats. These animals were treated for three months with once daily oral administration of N-PEP-12 and memory and learning performance was assessed at 1, 2 and 3 months after the onset of treatment using the so-called Morris water maze paradigm. After the last behavioural test, the animals were sacrificed and brain samples were collected for subsequent histological analysis of synaptic density in the hippocampal formation. The results of the behavioural tests in the Morris water maze showed a statistically significant difference between the N-PEP-12 treated group and the control group. Also, the improved cognitive performance of the N-PEP-12 treated animals correlated with morphological changes in their hippocampus. c- Clinical trials were performed to demonstrate that N-PEP-12 is safe and have provided evidence for a clinical effect of N-PEP-12 in improving memory and attention in health elderly volunteers. An open-label study with a single dose of N-PEP-12 provided evidence for brain electrophysiological effects that are consistent with improved vigilance and attention, and suggest a clinical effect of his compound on memory performance3. In a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled trial in 54 healthy elderly subjects meeting the criteria for AAMI (Age-Associated Memory Impairment), Crook et al.4 could demonstrate improvement in objective memory tests after treatment with MemoProve™ for one month. This improvement in psychometric test scores was accompanied by a significant improvement in the clinical symptom assessment using the SCAG score. Volc et al.5 investigated the activating effects of N-PEP-12 in a self-assessment study in 20 elderly volunteers who were treated with a daily dose of N-PEP-12 for 28 days. The participants had to answer 29 questions related to their memory performance, their ability to concentrate, their learning capabilities, and their general well-being in a four point scale. Overall results showed that 90% of the participants had improvement in at least one of the domains, 70% had improved memory function, 45% reported better concentration, 30% noted that their ability to learn had significantly increased, and 60% reported a generally better well-being. Taken together, the observed effects of N-PEP-12 in clinical trials on memory performance and brain bioelectrical activity support its use as a natural health product to maintain healthy mental function in humans. Is MemoProve™ safe? Peptones are generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA6. Furthermore, there is no evidence of any toxic effects of N-PEP-12 in all clinical trials performed with this product. Since its introduction, over 12 million dosages of N-PEP-12 have been taken by consumers without any safety concerns. Who can benefit from MemoProve™? - All adults with mild memory problems Stressed, overworked, and sleep-deprived people Anyone looking to improve their overall cognitive function. What is the general product information on MemoProve™? MemoProve™ is a natural health, over-the-counter product which has been registered with Health Canada. Its NPN number is 80032761. The product is sold in boxes containing 30 small-sized, easy to swallow tablets, each containing 90 mg of N-PEP-12™ (Peptones) as the medicinal ingredient. The non-medicinal Ingredients include lactose monohydrate, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, cellulose acetate phthalate, triethyl citrate, magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, talcum, titanium dioxide, and synthetic paraffin. MemoProve™ contains NO stimulants, herbs, yeast, dairy, artificial colours, sugar, or preservatives. It is also mild and well tolerated. Directions: Take one tablet daily. Cautions: This product is intended for adults 18 years of age or older. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to consult with their healthcare practitioner prior to using this product. Where is MemoProve™ sold? MemoProve™ can be purchased online at www.memoprovememory.com or by calling toll-free at: 1-855 MINDCAL (1 -855-646-3225) or 1 905 286 9111. MemoProve™ is also available at Shoppers Drugmart and at your local pharmacy. Do you have additional questions about MemoProve™? Please send us your Questions/Comments/Feedback by: Phone: 1-855 MINDCAL (1 -855-646-3225) or +1 905 286 9111 Fax: 905 286 9101 Email: [email protected] References (1) Windisch M, Hutter-Paier B, Grygar E, Doppler E, Moessler H. N-PEP-12 – a novel peptide compound that protects cortical neurons in culture against different age and disease associated lesions. J Neural Transm 112: 1331-1343; 2005. (2) Hutter-Paier B, Windisch M, Moessler H. Long-Term Treatment of Aged Rats with REBRO – a Dietary Supplement Containing Neuroprotective Biopeptides. Final Report; 2003. (3) Alvarez XA, Corzo L, Pérez P, Laredo M Sampedro C, Cacabelos R, Windisch M, Moessler H and T.H. Crook. Neuropeptide Dietary Supplement Enhances Cognitive Function and Activates Brain Bioelectrical Activity in Healthy Elderly Subjects. Methods Find Exp Clin Pharmacology 27(7):483-487; 2005. (4) Crook TH, Ferris SH, Alvarez XA, Laredo M, Moessler H. Effects of N-PEP-12 on memory among older adults. International Clinical Psychopharmacology. 20: 97-100; 2005. (5) Volc D, Alvarez XA, Moessler H: Cognitive Effects of the Novel Neuroprotective Dietary Supplement N-PEP-12: Evidence from a Self-Assessment Study. JATROS Neurologie & Psychiatrie. Special Edition; 2005. (6) 21 C.F.R. Subpart B – LISTING OF SPECIFIC SUBSTANCES AFFIRMED AS “GRAS” Sec. 184.1553.