Exploring Autophagy Inducing Molecules: Targeting Diverse Pathways in Alzheimer's Disease Management.

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), impose a significant burden on society due to their progressive nature and the associated healthcare costs. Autophagy, a vital cellular degradation process, has emerged as a promising therapeutic target in these disorders. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of autophagy's role in neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on AD. The pathogenesis of AD involves the accumulation of misfolded proteins, such as beta-amyloid (Aβ) and tau, leading to neuronal dysfunction and cognitive impairment. Autophagy can be crucial in clearing these protein aggregates and maintaining cellular homeostasis. Nevertheless, autophagic dysregulation and mitochondrial dysfunction contribute to further progression of neurodegeneration. Furthermore, recent studies have demonstrated the therapeutic potential of several plant-based phytoconstituents and repurposed molecules that modulate autophagy. These compounds target both mTOR-dependent and independent pathways, highlighting their potential to alleviate disease pathology. This review aims to pave the way for future research and development in this field.