Multitarget trehalose-carnosine conjugates inhibit Aβ aggregation, tune copper(II) activity and decrease acrolein

Giuseppa Ida Grasso1, Francesco Bellia1, Giuseppe Arena2

  • 1Institute of Biostructure and Bioimaging, National Research Council (CNR), via P. Gaifami 18, 95126, Catania, Italy.

Insights

This study explores new trehalose-carnosine bio-conjugates as multi-functional agents to combat neurodegenerative disorders by reducing amyloid aggregation and oxidative stress from acrolein.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Biochemistry
  • Materials Science

Background:

  • Neurodegenerative disorders are linked to amyloid aggregates, metal ion imbalance, and oxidative stress.
  • Acrolein, a biological oxidation product, plays a significant role in neurodegeneration.
  • Multi-functional biomolecules offer a promising therapeutic strategy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate novel trehalose-carnosine bio-conjugates for treating neurodegenerative diseases.
  • To evaluate the antiaggregating, antioxidant, and antiglycating properties of these conjugates.
  • To assess their capacity to sequester acrolein and inhibit protein aggregation.

Main Methods:

  • Synthesis of a new trehalose-carnosine conjugate.
  • Assessment of antiaggregating properties against self- and metal-induced aggregation.
  • Evaluation of antioxidant effects and acrolein sequestration capabilities.
  • Investigation of copper(II) coordination properties.

Main Results:

  • The trehalose-carnosine conjugate demonstrated significant antiaggregating and antioxidant activities.
  • The conjugate effectively sequestered acrolein, mitigating its toxicity.
  • Copper(II) coordination properties were characterized, revealing potential therapeutic mechanisms.

Conclusions:

  • Trehalose-carnosine bio-conjugates represent a promising therapeutic approach for neurodegenerative disorders.
  • These multi-functional molecules address key pathological hallmarks including aggregation and oxidative stress.
  • Further research into these conjugates could lead to novel treatments for brain diseases.