Nootropics have caused quite a buzz among scientific and research communities. Since their introduction, these compounds have piqued the interest of those exploring how the human brain works.
It is believed that nootropics may influence one’s cognitive health. However, the question “What do nootropics do?” still lingers in the minds of many.
This post will examine nootropics’ mechanism of action. It will also share with you their potential effects. However, we will do it from a strictly scientific perspective. This is because we do not want to imply any recommendation for human consumption.
Now, let’s have a research-based explanation of what nootropics can do.
What Are Nootropics?
The word “nootropic” was coined in the 1970s by Romanian chemist Corneliu Giurgea. Nootropic was derived from the Greek words nous (mind) and tropein (to bend or turn). Nootropics are compounds being investigated for their potential influence on cognitive processes.[1]
Nootropics are not a single class of molecule. They encompass a broad and diverse range of substances. These have different origins, structures, and biological pathways.
Some nootropics are naturally occurring molecules. These are the plant-derived compounds, amino acids, or fatty acids. However, some nootropics are synthetically produced. These ones are often designed to target the following:
- Specific neural receptors
- Metabolic pathways
- Neurotransmitter systems
Another category of nootropics is identified as clinically regulated cognitive agents. These are especially developed for neurological or medical conditions. This is conducted under tightly controlled circumstances.[2]
Essentially, nootropics are not universally defined or regulated. In scientific research, the primary focus is often on mechanisms and outcomes. This may include how a nootropic interacts with neural circuits and metabolic systems.
Due to the mentioned diversity, the study of nootropics is as much about understanding individual compounds.
How Nootropics Interact With the Brain at a Biological Level
Nootropics come with different structures and origins. Despite this, several nootropics share common biological pathways. Researchers often classify mechanisms of nootropics into several major categories:
Neurotransmitter Modulation
One of the most studied mechanisms involves the modulation of neurotransmitters. These are chemical messengers that transmit signals between neurons.
Different compounds may influence:
- Release of neurotransmitters into the synapse
- Reuptake, which determines how long a neurotransmitter remains active
- Receptor sensitivity, affecting how strongly neurons may respond
- Enzymatic breakdown, which impacts neurotransmitter availability
For example, some nootropics used in laboratory settings interact with acetylcholine pathways. These are believed to play a central role in memory and attention.
Other nootropic products may influence dopamine or glutamate systems. Such systems are associated with learning, motivation, and synaptic plasticity.
The mentioned actions can shape how neural circuits communicate, adapt, or store information.
Cerebral Blood Flow and Metabolic Efficiency
Several cognitive processes rely heavily on adequate blood flow, oxygenation, and glucose availability. Neurons have extremely high metabolic demands. This means even small changes in energy efficiency can affect their performance.
Some nootropics are researched for their potential to:
- Support microcirculation in brain tissue[3]
- Influence the delivery of oxygen or glucose
- Affect mitochondrial function
- Modify cells to process energy at a molecular level
The above-mentioned effects may contribute to what scientists refer to as “mental energy.” This is a reference to the brain’s capacity to sustain cognitive tasks in various conditions.[4]
Neuroplasticity and Synaptic Adaptation
Learning and memory formation rely on neuroplasticity. This describes the brain’s ability to modify synaptic connections in response to experience.[5]
Several nootropics are examined for their effects on factors that regulate neuroplasticity. These typically include:
- BDNF (Brain Derived Neurotropic Factor)[6]
- NGF (Nerve Growth Factor)[7]
- Synaptic signaling pathways that help strengthen or prune connections
Some research focuses on plant-derived compounds or functional mushrooms. Based on findings, nootropics may influence pathways for neuronal growth or synaptic repair. However, these effects remain active areas of investigation.
Stress Response and Oxidative Balance
Neurons are highly sensitive to oxidative stress. This is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. Some nootropics, especially the ones coming from plants, are studied for their antioxidant properties.
Such compounds may interact with:
- The HPA (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal) axis, which regulates stress hormones[8]
- Inflammatory signaling pathways
- Cellular defense systems that protect neurons from damage
When nootropics modulate these systems, they show promising support for cognitive resiliency. This action could benefit the brain as it experiences oxidative stress.
What Nootropics Are Studied to Do
Nootropics show potential in several key cognitive and physiological areas. This is according to the existing research available. Results vary across studies.
Cognitive Processing
Many researchers examine nootropics and how they can affect specific tasks. These are those requiring sustained attention, information processing, or reaction time. Some compounds may alter alertness via neurotransmitter pathways. Some can exert influence on the brain’s ability to filter and prioritize sensory input.
Memory and Learning Pathways
Memory research typically distinguish between the following:
- Working memory, which manages short-term information
- Long-term memory, which involves consolidation, storage, and retrieval
Here, certain compounds may interact with cholinergic pathways. Thus, possibly influencing how memories are encoded and strengthened.
Alertness and Mental Energy
A specific class of nootropics influences wakefulness-related pathways. One example is the adenosine receptor activity. Other groups of nootropics could affect mitochondrial function or glucose metabolism. All of these factors can shape energy availability within neurons.
The stated mechanisms are commonly studied in different cognitive contexts. These are the ones involving fatigue, circadian rhythm disruption, or high-demand cognitive tasks.
Mood and Stress Response
Research on mood-related effects typically focuses on compounds that interact with stress-regulation systems. These could refer to the HPA and GABAergic pathways. The studies would explore how nootropics may influence emotional regulation and stress resilience. However, these are conducted within controlled experimental setups.
Neuroprotection
Neuroprotective research examines how compounds may reduce neuronal damage. This damage can be due to inflammation, oxidative stress, and excitotoxicity. This area of study is especially relevant to aging.
Examples of Nootropics and Their Studied Effects
Caffeine and L-Theanine
Caffeine is one of the most researched nootropics. It primarily works by blocking adenosine receptors. These play a specific role in sleep and drowsiness.
L-theanine is an amino acid present in leaves. It has been studied for its possible effects on alpha-brainwave activity.
Together, these nootropic substances are often evaluated for their possible influence on attention and alertness. Yet, this effect is observed within laboratory settings.
Bacopa Monnieri
This plant has a long history of study. It is primarily utilized to study memory and stress resilience. Laboratory setups often focus on Bacopa’s antioxidant properties. Even its potential influence on neurotransmitter activity has undergone extensive testing.
Lion’s Mane Mushroom
Lion’s mane (Hericium erinaceus) has gained interest among researchers. They are curious about its possible interaction with nerve growth factors. Some studies examine how the mushroom’s bioactive compounds could influence neuronal degeneration.
Synthetic Compounds
Phenibut HCL
Phenibut HCL is a man-made compound originally developed in the 1960s. Laboratory and clinical studies have explored the compounds on stress response and mood regulation. Some studies mention its potential effect on the sleep cycle and sensory processing.[9]
Fladrafinil
Fladrafinil is another synthetic nootropic. In theoretical models, Fladrafinil is discussed for its potential wakefulness-promoting properties.
DMAA
DMAA refers to a nootropic compound prepared in a laboratory. In laboratory models, DMAA may influence the release of norepinephrine. It is a neurotransmitter associated with alertness and sympathetic nervous system activity.[10]
What the Research Says: Evidence vs. Limitations
Research on nootropics shows varied outcomes. Well-studied compounds (caffeine and l-theanine) demonstrate clearer mechanisms. However, their possible effects are observed within strict experimental settings.
Synthetic nootropics may bring more uncertainty regarding their potential effects. Despite their promising benefits, the data to confirm their safety is very limited. As such, they are identified as research compounds. This means that man-made nootropics are not safe for human consumption. Buy them for research purposes only.
Safety and Ethical Considerations in Research
In controlled scientific settings, nootropic research occurs under strict oversight. These studies are designed to understand how these compounds interact with neural systems. Identifying possible side effects and determining safe experimental parameters are considered, too.
Below are some potential risks involved in nootropics. Each was observed among experimental models:
- Sleep disruption
- Overstimulation
- Headaches
- Physiological stress responses
- Interactions with other compounds
Conclusion
Nootropics encompass a wide and diverse set of compounds. They are studied for their potential influence on cognition, memory, mental energy, mood, and neural resilience.
Nootropic effects vary greatly depending on one’s research goals. While some nootropics have solid scientific backing, others require more trials. Nevertheless, these cognitive compounds are not safe for human consumption. Buy nootropics for laboratory use only.
Understanding what nootropics do gives us valuable insight into how the brain works. It also allows us to observe its adaptive capabilities. As research continues to expand, we can further map the connections that make up the complexity of the human mind.
References
- Malík, M., & Tlustoš, P. (2022). Nootropics as cognitive enhancers: Types, dosage and side effects of smart drugs. Nutrients, 14(16), 3367. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14163367
- Malík, M., & Tlustoš, P. (2022b). Nootropics as cognitive enhancers: Types, dosage and side effects of smart drugs. Nutrients, 14(16), 3367. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14163367
- Rönnlid, D. (2019, November 13). How to think about optimal vascular function. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/experience-engineering/201911/cerebral-blood-flow-is-crucial-cognitive-performance
- Lieberman, H. R. (2007). Cognitive methods for assessing mental energy. Nutritional Neuroscience, 10(5–6), 229–242. https://doi.org/10.1080/10284150701722273
- Puderbaugh, M., & Emmady, P. D. (2023, May 1). Neuroplasticity. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK557811/
- Bathina, S., & Das, U. N. (2015). Brain-derived neurotrophic factor and its clinical implications. Archives of Medical Science, 6(6), 1164–1178. https://doi.org/10.5114/aoms.2015.56342
- Aloe, L., Rocco, M., Balzamino, B., & Micera, A. (2015). Nerve Growth Factor: a focus on neuroscience and therapy. Current Neuropharmacology, 13(3), 294–303. https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159×13666150403231920
- Kumar, K. A., Nagwar, S., Thyloor, R., & Satyanarayana, S. (2014). Anti-stress and nootropic activity of drugs affecting the renin-angiotensin system in rats based on indirect biochemical evidence. Journal of the Renin-Angiotensin-Aldosterone System, 16(4), 801–812. https://doi.org/10.1177/1470320313516173
- Lapin, I. (2001). Phenibut (Β‐Phenyl‐GABA): a tranquilizer and nootropic drug. CNS Drug Reviews, 7(4), 471–481. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1527-3458.2001.tb00211.x
- Small, C., Cheng, M. H., Belay, S. S., Bulloch, S. L., Zimmerman, B., Sorkin, A., & Block, E. R. (2023). The alkylamine stimulant 1,3-Dimethylamylamine exhibits Substrate-Like regulation of dopamine transporter function and localization. Journal of Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics, 386(2), 266–273. https://doi.org/10.1124/jpet.122.001573
