In the attached study, conducted with a human neural cell line, researchers assert that C10, aka decanoic acid, increases mitochondrial numbers and activity. This is significant because of the suspicion that impaired mitochondrial function plays a significant role in neurodegenerative diseases. The researchers suggest that elevated blood levels of C10 from ketogenic diets underlie the symptomatic relief that epilepsy patients receive from ketogenic diets.
C10 is found in coconut oil, usually making up about 6% by volume. There have been many anecdotes about dementia patients showing marked improvement when supplementing with large amounts of coconut oil, usually several tablespoons a day.
C10 is also found in some commercial MCT oils; other brands contain none at all. I have clinically significant cognitive problems which I have discussed elsewhere on the forum, and I take many supps intended to support mitochondrial function. I have been experimenting with Left Coast MCT oil, which is approximately 40% C10. (I am not shilling for Left Coast; there are other MCT oils with a substantial percentage of C10. But as I said, some brands have none, so check labels.)
For several months I took several tablespoons of coconut oil a day, and never perceived any change in my cognition or energy level. But when I take 3-4 tablespoons of Left Coast daily, I experience an unpleasant hypomania. To avoid this, I supplement with far smaller doses, teaspoons rather than tablespoons. The hypomania is something very distinct from the effect of large doses of caffeine or Focalin. The results of this n=1 experiment would seem to indicate that C10 in quantity really is neurologically active.
I mentioned the study below in the MCT oil thread, but I thought it deserved a thread of its own, since I know many of us are seeking to enhance mitochondrial function.