https://pages.htgaa.org/2026b/hannah-eney/week-01-hw-project-ideas/index.htmlThe target output I would like to make are the isolated metabolites (mainly bacosides) of Bacopa monnieri that produce the strongest neuroplasticity-associated signaling. As someone who deals with anxiety and depression, I naturally found the topic interesting of a supplement that can ease the symptoms of both, while also improving neuroplasticity and reversing the damage done by chronic stress. “Bacopa is said to improve or maintain memory, learning retention, concentration, focus, and overall cognitive function and performance” (Shane-McWhorter, 2025). “Bacopa monnieri, also known as Brahmi or Waterhyssop, is a plant used in Ayurvedic medicine for its memory-enhancing properties and control of blood sugar levels. The plant has been studied for its potential in treating Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and depression. Animal studies have shown promising results in reducing symptoms and protecting against neurodegeneration” (Gościniak, 2025). Bacopa is contraindicated in many conditions: bradycardia, thyroid disorders (especially hyperthyroidism), stomach ulcers, asthma, emphysema, urinary tract obstructions, individuals on cholinergic or anticholinergic medications, individuals on antidepressants. “Bacopa can increase acetylcholine and, therefore, may decrease the effect of anticholinergic medications or increase the adverse effects of cholinergic medications that increase acetylcholine (eg, medications for glaucoma or Alzheimer disease ). Bacopa may increase thyroid hormone levels; therefore, people taking thyroid hormone medications should not take bacopa. Bacopa may change the blood levels of medications metabolized by the cytochrome P450 system in the liver (eg, warfarin, some calcium channel blockers, antiseizure medications)” (Shane-McWhorter, 2025).The idea is that if the metabolites that have the strongest neuroplasticity-associated signaling can be isolated and identified, the whole plant can be refined in hopes to have less side effects, being available for more individuals after future clinical studies are done.Hugoen