Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease: different molecular targets and potential therapeutic agents including curcumin

Curr Opin Pharmacol. 2009 Aug;9(4):434-44. doi: 10.1016/j.coph.2009.06.012. Epub 2009 Aug 3.

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder of the elderly. Deposition of amyloid beta plaque and associated neuroinflammation are the major hallmarks of AD. Whereas reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activated microglial cells contribute to neuronal loss, nuclear factor kappaB and apolipoprotein E participate in inflammatory process of AD. Current FDA approved drugs provide only symptomatic relief in AD. For broad spectrum of activity, some natural products are also being tested. Turmeric is used as an anti-inflammatory medicine in various regions of Asia. Curcumin, which is a yellow colored polyphenol compound present in turmeric, showed anti-inflammatory properties. Herein, we discuss the neurobiological and neuroinflammatory pathways of AD, evaluate different molecular targets and potential therapeutic agents, including curcumin, for the treatment of AD.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / complications
  • Alzheimer Disease / drug therapy*
  • Alzheimer Disease / pathology*
  • Animals
  • Curcumin / administration & dosage*
  • Curcumin / therapeutic use
  • Drug Delivery Systems / methods*
  • Humans
  • Inflammation Mediators / antagonists & inhibitors
  • Inflammation Mediators / physiology*
  • Neurogenic Inflammation / complications
  • Neurogenic Inflammation / drug therapy
  • Neurogenic Inflammation / pathology*
  • Neuroimmunomodulation / drug effects
  • Neuroimmunomodulation / physiology

Substances

  • Inflammation Mediators
  • Curcumin