Curcumin: A small molecule with big functionality against amyloid aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases and type 2 diabetes

AbstractAmyloidosis is a concept that implicates disorders and complications that are due to abnormal protein accumulation in different cells and tissues. Protein aggregation ‐associated diseases are classified according to the type of aggregates and deposition sites, such as neurodegenerative disorders and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Polyphenolic phytochemicals such as curcumin and its derivatives have anti‐amyloid effects both in vitro and in animal models; however, the underlying mechanisms are not understood. In this review, we summarized possible mechanisms by which curcumin could interfere with self‐assembly processes and reduce amyloid aggregation in amyloidosis. Furthermore, we discuss clinical trials in which curcumin is used as a therapeutic agent for the treatment of diseases linking to protein aggregates.
Source: BioFactors - Category: Biochemistry Authors: Tags: Review Article Source Type: research