Scientists from the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre For Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), an autonomous institute under the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India, have successfully modified a naturally occurring compound, Berberine, into a new form: Ber-D. This has potential uses as an inhibitor for Alzheimer’s disease.
About Berberine and Its Modification
Berberine is a chemical compound found in several plants and similar to curcumin, a substance in turmeric. This natural and inexpensive product is predominantly found in India and China and has been used extensively in traditional medicine and other applications. However, its use has been limited due to its poor solubility and toxicity to cells.
Scientists at JNCASR have now modified this compound into Ber-D, a soluble (aqueous) and antioxidant modification of berberine. In comparison to the original, it is non-toxic to cells, making it a more viable option for medicinal purposes.
Use of Ber-D as an Alzheimer’s Inhibitor
Through their research, JNCASR scientists have demonstrated that Ber-D can inhibit the multifaceted amyloid toxicity associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Amyloids are proteins that can accumulate in the liver, kidneys, spleen, or other tissues during certain diseases.
In the case of Alzheimer’s disease, a specific type known as Amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulates in the brain. The newly synthesized Ber-D has shown capabilities in inhibiting the aggregations of both metal-dependent and independent Amyloid beta (Aβ).
Moreover, it was found that Ber-D treatment can prevent mitochondrial dysfunction and the corresponding neuronal toxicity that contributes to premature cell death.
Alzheimer’s Disease
Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive disorder that catalyses the degeneration and subsequent death of brain cells. It is the most prevalent neurodegenerative disorder, accounting for over 70% of all cases of dementia.
Dementia refers to a collection of diseases and conditions characterized by a decline in cognitive abilities such as memory, language, problem-solving and other thinking skills, which significantly affect an individual’s ability to perform everyday activities. Memory loss is a common symptom.
Conclusion
The multifunctional properties of Ber-D make it a promising candidate for developing effective therapeutic treatments for the multifaceted toxicity associated with Alzheimer’s disease. This breakthrough by JNCASR scientists signifies a step forward in the development of more effective treatments for neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s.
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