Design, Synthesis and Evaluation of Indole Derivatives as Multifunctional Agents against Alzheimer's disease.
Loading...
Date
2017
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of the Western Cape
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is an age related neurodegenerative disorder characterised by
progressive memory loss and cognitive impairment. It is one of several
neurodegenerative disorders occurring as a result of a process of programmed cell death
known as apoptosis. The process is set off by various stimuli in numerous pathways that
ultimately lead to apoptosis. AD stands out as one of the leading causes of death in the
elderly in today's society.
The cholinergic hypothesis of AD states that there is an extensive loss of cholinergic
neurons in the central nervous system that contributes to cognitive impairment.
Acetylcholinesterase inhibitors decrease the breakdown of the neurotransmitter
acetylcholine to maintain its post synaptic levels and compensate for the loss of
functional brain cells. Amyloid ? plaque formation has been shown to be extensively
involved in the pathogenesis of AD. The abnormal regulation of the amyloid precursor
protein gives rise to plaques that impair neuronal homeostasis and eventually lead to
apoptosis. The monoamine oxidase enzymes catalyse the hydrolysis of amine
neurotransmitters such as dopamine. The process produces peroxides that cause
oxidative stress alongside the depletion of neurotransmitters. Inhibition of monoamine
oxidase allows for accumulation of neurotransmitters and reduces the formation of
oxidative free radicals to confer neuroprotection.
Description
Magister Scientiae - MSc