Work

The ameliorative potential of metformin against aluminum‐induced neurotoxicity: Insights from in vitro studies

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is increasingly recognized as a metabolic disorder, often referred to as type 3 diabetes, due to its strong association with insulin resistance. Chronic exposure to aluminum, a known neurotoxin, has been identified as a significant risk factor in the development and progression of AD. This study explores the potential of metformin, a common anti-diabetic drug, to mitigate aluminum-induced neurotoxicity in an in vitro model of AD. Our findings reveal that metformin significantly reduces oxidative stress markers such as malonaldehyde, carbonyl groups, and reactive oxygen species while enhancing antioxidant defenses. Metformin modulates critical signaling pathways, including glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK3-β)/RAC-alpha serine/threonine protein kinase (RAC-alpha serine/threonine protein kinase (Akt1)/protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A) and Wnt/β-catenin, decreasing Tau protein levels and promoting neurogenesis. These results suggest that metformin may offer a novel therapeutic approach for AD, particularly in cases where aluminum exposure is a contributing factor.

Source: Journal of Applied Toxicology

DOI: 10.1002/jat.4695

Authors: Sonia Sanajou, Anil Yirün, Göksun Demirel, Pinar Erkekoğlu, Gönül Şahin, Terken Baydar

Institutions: Istanbul Aydın University, Hacettepe University, Cukurova University

Language: English

Topic: Alzheimer's disease research and treatments

Subfield: Physiology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,430