Interaction of opioid with insulin/IGFs signaling in Alzheimer's disease

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Sadegh Salarinasab1, Leila Salimi2, Neda Alidadiani3

  • 1Neuroscience Research Center, Institute of Neuropharmacology, Kerman University of Medical Science, Kerman, Iran.

Journal of Molecular Neuroscience : MN
|February 7, 2020
PubMed

Insights

This review explores the link between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and insulin signaling, particularly the crosstalk with mu-opioid receptors. Understanding this connection may reveal new therapeutic targets for AD.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Biochemistry
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Alzheimer's disease (AD) involves molecular abnormalities and neuronal loss.
  • AD is increasingly linked to impaired insulin signaling, earning it the nickname 'type III diabetes'.
  • Insulin receptors are widespread in the central nervous system, regulating crucial functions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the potential crosstalk between mu-opioid receptor and insulin signaling pathways.
  • To discuss the implications of this interaction in the context of Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of existing studies on opioid and insulin signaling.
  • Analysis of biochemical and histopathological data related to AD.
  • Examination of molecular mechanisms underlying receptor interactions.

Main Results:

  • Opioids, like morphine, may interfere with insulin signaling pathways.
  • Direct crosstalk between insulin receptor and mu-opioid receptor signaling is hypothesized.
  • Evidence suggests a role for insulin signaling dysregulation in AD development.

Conclusions:

  • The interplay between mu-opioid and insulin signaling pathways warrants further investigation for AD.
  • Targeting these signaling pathways could offer novel therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the association between these pathways and AD.
Keywords:
Alzheimer’s diseaseInsulin/IGFs systemMAPK/ERK signaling pathwayOpioidsPI3K/AKT signaling pathway

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