Natural product for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease

J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol. 2017 Sep 26;28(5):413-423. doi: 10.1515/jbcpp-2016-0147.

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is related to increasing age. It is mainly characterized by progressive neurodegenerative disease, which damages memory and cognitive function. Natural products offer many options to reduce the progress and symptoms of many kinds of diseases, including AD. Meanwhile, natural compound structures, including lignans, flavonoids, tannins, polyphenols, triterpenes, sterols, and alkaloids, have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-amyloidogenic, and anticholinesterase activities. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis and targets for treatment of AD. We also present several medicinal plants and isolated compounds that are used for preventing and reducing symptoms of AD.

Keywords: Alzheimer’s disease; acetylcholinesterase enzyme; natural product; β-amyloid.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Alzheimer Disease / drug therapy*
  • Animals
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / pharmacology
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Antioxidants / pharmacology
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use
  • Biological Products / pharmacology*
  • Biological Products / therapeutic use*
  • Humans
  • Plants, Medicinal / chemistry

Substances

  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antioxidants
  • Biological Products