MicroRNAs modulation by curcumin, catalpol, and other natural products in Alzheimer's disease: a review

Amir Modarresi Chahardehi1, Reza Arefnezhad1,2, Alireza Pourbafrani3

  • 1Coenzyme R Research Institute, Tehran, Iran.

PubMed

Insights

Natural products like curcumin can modulate microRNAs (miRNAs) to combat Alzheimer's disease (AD) by targeting key pathological pathways. This review explores their neuroprotective potential and challenges for clinical use.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Pharmacology
  • Genetics

Background:

  • Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with limited treatment options.
  • MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are implicated in AD pathogenesis, affecting amyloid-beta aggregation, tau phosphorylation, neuroinflammation, and oxidative stress.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the impact of natural products on miRNA regulation in Alzheimer's disease.
  • To summarize the molecular targets and therapeutic potential of these natural products.
  • To discuss challenges and future directions for miRNA-based AD therapies.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review of scientific literature.
  • Analysis of studies on natural products and their effects on miRNA expression in AD models.
  • Examination of molecular targets and mechanisms of action.

Main Results:

  • Natural products including curcumin, catalpol, Allium jesdianum, Tanshinone IIA (Tan IIA), and Tiaoxin Recipe (TXR) show potential in modulating miRNA expression relevant to AD.
  • These compounds exert neuroprotective effects through multi-target mechanisms.
  • Identified miRNAs include miR-132, miR-34a, and miR-124, which are crucial in AD pathology.

Conclusions:

  • Natural products offer a promising avenue for Alzheimer's disease therapy by modulating miRNA pathways.
  • Overcoming challenges in bioavailability and clinical translation is crucial for developing effective treatments.
  • Advanced delivery systems and personalized medicine approaches are needed for successful clinical application.

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