Background Low mood and cognitive impairments are multifactorial conditions often linked to oxidative stress, neurotransmitter imbalances, and neuroinflammation. Bilberry ( Vaccinium myrtillus L. ) extract, particularly rich in anthocyanins, has shown promising neuropharmacological properties in recent studies. Aims of the study This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the biochemical, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties of a standardized bilberry extract (Mirtoselect™), alongside assessing its potential health benefits on mood and cognitive enhancement in a clinical setting. Methods In vitro assays were conducted to explore the neuromodulatory, antioxidant, and cytoprotective properties of Bilberry extract. Enzyme inhibition assays targeted γ-Aminobutyric acid transaminase (GABA-T), monoamine oxidase A (MAO-A), and acetylcholinesterase (AChE), while GABA A receptor binding was also evaluated. Antioxidant capacity was assessed using DPPH, ABTS, FRAP, ORAC, HORAC, and TAS assays. Neuroprotection was investigated using SH-SY5Y cells exposed to H 2 O 2 , assessing cell viability (MTT), membrane integrity (LDH release), and BDNF expression. Cytotoxicity was determined through the MTT assay in SH-SY5Y cells. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot clinical study was conducted on healthy adult subjects ( n = 33) (aged 25–55 years) to evaluate the effects of Bilberry extract on mood (POMS) and cognitive function. Results Bilberry extract demonstrated significant inhibition of GABA-T, MAO-A, and AChE, alongside moderate GABA A receptor binding. It exhibited robust antioxidant activity in DPPH (EC 50 : 9.24 ± 0.22 μg/mL), ABTS (EC 50 : 12.70 ± 0.11 μg/mL), FRAP, ORAC, HORAC, and TAS assays. Neuroprotective effects included enhanced cell viability, reduced LDH release, and upregulation of BDNF in SH-SY5Y cells under oxidative stress. Cytotoxicity tests confirmed a favorable safety profile. In the pilot study, Bilberry extract supplementation significantly improved mood parameters, including reduced tension, depression, and confusion scores ( p 0.05) compared to placebo, with minimal adverse effects. Conclusion Bilberry extract exhibits potent antioxidant, neuromodulatory, and neuroprotective properties, supporting its potential as a natural intervention for managing low mood and cognitive health. The favorable safety profile and preliminary clinical benefits warrant further research.
Kara et al. (Thu,) studied this question.