Neuroprotective potential of Rhus coriaria: Insights into acetylcholinesterase inhibition and amyloid-β modulation

Sumac (Rhus coriaria) is a spice and a medicinal plant that has been indicated to exert favorable effects in the management of different diseases, and it also possesses high anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. A plant known to be rich in bioactive molecules, including polyphenols, tannins, and flavonoids, sumac showed potent free radical scavenging activity. It thus may fight oxidative stress, which is recognized as the main cause of neurodegenerative ailments. In addition, recent investigations have also demonstrated during in vitro assays that Rhus coriaria might exert acetylcholinesterase inhibition activities, of interest in the context of therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer's disease (AD) associated with an increase of cholinergic neurotransmission supporting the cognitive processes. Furthermore, the sumac's neuroprotective activity may regulate amyloid-β (Aβ) aggregation, an important phenomenon in the AD diseased brain. Sumac may preserve neurons and synapses by blocking Aβ plaque production and neurotoxicity. That makes its anti-inflammatory activity additionally involve neuroprotective activity, largely because it reduces the pro-inflammatory cytokines level and restrains the microglial activation in the progression of AD. Given the multitarget activities, Rhus coriaria may be a potent natural candidate for preventing and treating AD. In vitro and in vivo studies are necessary to isolate its bioactive compounds, as well as preclinical and clinical studies for its effects on neurodegenerative and cognitive disorders. Dietary or medicative incorporation of sumac can supply an adjuvant choice for AD and its correlated pathogenicity.