Curcumin Micelles Improve Mitochondrial Function in a Mouse Model of Alzheimer's Disease

Preventive strategies for late-onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) should start early at a prodromal stage. Mitochondrial dysfunction has been found to play an important role in the initiation of both aging and the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Curcumin, a widely used spice and food-coloring agent, is a polyphenol derived from the rhizome of Curcuma longa. It is known to have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-protein-aggregate activities which are usually considered beneficial for mitochondrial function. We assessed brain mitochondrial function and concentrations of soluble Aβ40 in a mouse model of AD (Thy1-APP751SL transgenic mice) after 3-week administration of curcumin micelles. Curcumin micelles are a newly developed formulation that account for increased curcumin bioavailability. Curcumin treatment had positive effects on mitochondrial membrane potential and respiratory control ratio. Additionally, it decreased levels of soluble Aβ40 in brains of Thy1-APPSL transgenic mice. Hence, curcumin micelles are a promising neutraceutical for the prevention of AD.