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P A Y W A L L E D S O U R C E : ScienceDirect
Highlights
• According to Harman's theory, the accumulation of oxidative damage over time leads to aging itself, functional disturbances, diseases, and, ultimately, death.
• Due to low antioxidant capacity, high presence of heavy metals, and of some polyunsaturated fatty acids, the brain is especially vulnerable to the effects of oxidative stress and age.
• The progressive loss of redox signaling decreases neuronal function and increases the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Oxidative modifications alter the functionality of redox-sensitive neuronal proteins.
• Post-transcriptional regulation mediated by microRNA quickly and effectively modulates the levels of antioxidant and ROS generating enzymes.
• Some antioxidants in the diet have a positive effect on human cognition.
Abstract
Aging is a natural process that includes several changes that gradually make organisms degenerate and die. Harman’s theory proposes that aging is a consequence of the progressive accumulation of oxidative modifications mediated by reactive oxygen/nitrogen species, which plays an essential role in the development and progression of many neurodegenerative diseases.
This review will focus on how abnormal redox modifications induced by age impair the functionality of neuronal redox-sensitive proteins involved in axonal elongation and guidance, synaptic plasticity, and intercellular communication. We will discuss post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression by microRNAs as a mechanism that controls the neuronal redox state. Finally, we will discuss how some brain-permeant antioxidants from the diet have a beneficial effect on cognition.
Taken together, the evidence revised here indicates that oxidative-driven modifications of specific proteins and changes in microRNA expression may be useful biomarkers for aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Also, some specific antioxidant therapies have undoubtedly beneficial neuroprotective effects when administered in the correct doses, in the ideal formulation combination, and during the appropriate therapeutic window. The use of some antioxidants is, therefore, still poorly explored for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.
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T O A C C E S S T H E R E S T O F T H E S T U D Y, P L E A S E V I S I T T H E S O U R C E .
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