Pomegranate Leaves Yield Molecule That Dismantles TTR Amyloid Fibrils

Researchers at Kumamoto University identified 1,2,3,4,6-penta-O-galloyl-β-D-glucose (PGG) from pomegranate leaves and branches that selectively dismantles preexisting transthyretin (TTR) amyloid fibrils in vitro, in vivo, and with patient-derived fibrils ex vivo, reducing deposits and improving healthspan and lifespan in a C. elegans model. Unlike amyloid-β, PGG targets TTR aggregates specifically, suggesting a promising natural lead for treating TTR amyloidosis, though safety and efficacy in humans remain to be established.