Drug Development.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Biochemistry
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by amyloid beta (Aβ) plaque accumulation.
• The gut-brain axis is increasingly recognized for its role in neuronal health and inflammation.
• Kefir, a fermented dairy product, modulates gut microbiota and exhibits health benefits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the neuroprotective effects of four kefir peptides against Aβ-induced neurotoxicity.
• To assess the impact of kefir peptides on neuronal viability and oxidative stress in an in vitro AD model.

Main Methods:

• Synthesized four kefir peptides (PW, M11, M20, M25) with homology to Aβ 1-42.
• Utilized the SH-SY5Y human neuronal cell line and an in vitro Aβ aggregation model.
• Assessed cell viability using AlamarBlue assay and oxidative stress via DCFH-DA staining.

Main Results:

• Peptides M11, M20, and M25 significantly enhanced neuronal viability when co-administered with Aβ before plaque formation.
• All tested kefir peptides increased neuronal viability post-plaque formation compared to controls.
• Kefir peptides demonstrated potential in attenuating intracellular oxidative stress.

Conclusions:

• Kefir peptides exhibit neuroprotective properties by improving neuronal viability and reducing oxidative stress.
• These findings suggest kefir peptides as potential therapeutic agents for Alzheimer's disease.
• Further research into kefir peptides could uncover novel strategies for AD management.