Amary llidaceae Perspectives In Alzheimer´S Disease

Abstract

Alzheimer ́s disease (AD) is the most prominent type of dementia in elderly population. The etiology is multifactorial, and pathophysiology of disease is complex with slowly progressive and irreversible deterioration. Traditionally, AD researches have focused on the pathogenesis caused by Neuritic Plaques (NPs) and Neurofibrilary Tangles (NFTs); however, in the pathologic spectrum of disease, there are others independent pathways involved. Although several genetic alterations have been associated with AD, as memory as AD seem to be influenced by genetic, physiologic and environmental factors, resulted of accumulate over time. The current therapeutic approaches for AD temporarily improve the symptoms; and despite intensive efforts, none of the treatments available today alter the course of disease. Nevertheless, one of the most promising approaches for treating it is to enhance acetylcholine level and decrease oxidative stress in brain of AD patients. In line with this, different studies indicate that the alkaloids belonging to Amaryllidaceae family exhibit a wide range of biological activities. Galantamine has become the most attractive of alkaloids for its use in the treatment of AD; however, Amaryllidaceaes contain other alkaloids which have high potential as acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (ACHEI) and antioxidant.