In November 2005, Japanese researchers from the University of Toyama’s Institute of Natural Medicine discovered a novel sesquiterpene compound in Vietnamese agarwood — specifically in 4.52g of premium Kyara-grade material. Their findings were published in Bioorganic & Medicinal Chemistry (2006).
The compound demonstrated the ability to stimulate BDNF (Brain-derived Neurotrophic Factor) mRNA expression — a protein essential for neuron survival, growth, and differentiation in the central nervous system.
BDNF deficiency is linked to depression, schizophrenia, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease. Enhanced BDNF expression may support nervous system health and stress resilience.
This research provides scientific grounding for traditional claims about agarwood’s calming properties and points toward potential therapeutic applications for neurological conditions.