Exploring Autophagy Inducing Molecules: Targeting Diverse Pathways in Alzheimer's Disease Management

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Cell Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), present a significant societal and healthcare challenge.
• Autophagy, a fundamental cellular degradation pathway, is increasingly recognized for its role in these diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive review of autophagy's function in neurodegenerative diseases, with a specific focus on Alzheimer's disease.
• To explore the therapeutic potential of compounds that modulate autophagy for neurodegenerative conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on autophagy, Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis, and therapeutic interventions.
• Analysis of research on protein aggregation, cellular homeostasis, and mitochondrial function in neurodegeneration.
• Examination of plant-based phytoconstituents and repurposed molecules targeting autophagy pathways.

Main Results:

• Autophagy plays a critical role in clearing misfolded protein aggregates (beta-amyloid and tau) central to AD pathogenesis.
• Dysregulation of autophagy and mitochondrial dysfunction exacerbate neurodegeneration.
• Various phytoconstituents and repurposed drugs demonstrate potential in modulating autophagy to alleviate AD pathology.

Conclusions:

• Autophagy modulation represents a promising therapeutic strategy for neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's.
• Targeting both mTOR-dependent and independent autophagy pathways offers avenues for novel treatments.
• Further research into autophagy-modulating compounds is warranted for clinical development.