Indian scientists explore potential cure for Alzheimer's Disease using microRNAs
Alzheimer's Disease is a devastating condition that steals away mental faculties and debilitates day-to-day life of patients. Characterised by the accumulation of protein clumps in the brain, memory loss, and cognitive deficits, it is estimated to affect more than 57.4 million people worldwide, a number that is expected to almost triple to 152.8 million cases by 2050.
Addressing this, researchers from JNCASR, an autonomous institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), explored altered miRNAs in the Alzheimer's brain for early, specific, and accurate clinical diagnosis of the condition.
The study published in the journal NAR Molecular Medicine 'unveiled various miRNA-mRNA pathway networks altered in Alzheimer's, which could potentially reveal various pathways to target for drug development,' said the team led by Madhu Ramesh and Prof. Thimmaiah Govindaraju from JNCASR.
In the study, the researchers used a double transgenic AD mouse model to discover novel miRNAs involved in AD development and progression and identified various miRNAs that are altered in the AD brain compared to the normal brain, which could potentially trigger the disease.
They discovered a significant increase in miR-7a -- which targets the protein Klf4 -- a master regulator of various gene expressions involved in Alzheimer's.
Their detailed study showed that the miR-7a-Klf4 axis regulates neuroinflammation -- a major cause of Alzheimer's pathology. This axis also regulates an iron-mediated neuronal cell death mechanism involved in Alzheimer's called ferroptosis.
'The study offers valuable insight into Alzheimer's disease by uncovering the regulatory role of miR-7a in controlling neuroinflammation and ferroptosis via Klf4 targeting,' said Govindaraju.
The researchers also developed a miRNA-based therapeutic that targets Klf4 to prevent neuroinflammation and ferroptosis.
They carefully modified miR-7a to synthesise a mimic that significantly silenced Klf4 levels and rescued disease pathologies. They used Honokiol -- a small molecule and natural product for pharmacological modulation of the miR7a-Klf4 axis.
Honokiol is a natural product found in bark and seed cones of Magnolia tree that targets Klf4 to stall neuroinflammation and ferroptotic cell death involved in Alzheimer's. This demonstrates that the miR-7a-Klf4 axis is a novel target for Alzheimer's and warrants further exploration to develop better therapeutics for the disease, the team said. 'With clinical evaluation, the developed miRNA mimic and small molecule, if proven safe and effective, could potentially cure Alzheimer's, benefiting both patients and caregivers,' they noted.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
6 hours ago
- Time of India
Neuroscientist says this one exercise could protect your brain and keep memory strong for years
Alzheimer's disease affects an estimated 6.7 million older adults in the United States, a figure expected to double by 2060. While there is currently no cure, research suggests that certain lifestyle habits can help reduce the risk, and one particular type of exercise appears to be especially effective. Independence Day 2025 Before Trump, British used tariffs to kill Indian textile Bank of Azad Hind: When Netaji gave India its own currency Swadeshi 2.0: India is no longer just a market, it's a maker Dementia remains one of the biggest global health challenges of the 21st century. Alzheimer's, the most common form, is a progressive and irreversible condition that causes functional, cognitive, and behavioural decline. Age and genetics are known risk factors, but studies have found that around 35% of dementia risk is linked to modifiable factors such as high blood pressure in midlife, obesity, smoking, social isolation, hearing loss, depression, diabetes, and low physical activity. The Exercise That Stands Out Physical activity has long been recognised as a protective factor for brain health. However, according to a report in TOI, new research points towards a specific approach that may offer even greater benefits, dual-task exercise. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Undo Dr Robert W.B. Love, a neuroscientist specialising in Alzheimer's prevention, was quoted in TOI highlighting that this type of exercise involves engaging both the body and the mind at the same time. Dr Heather Sandison, a naturopathic doctor, was quoted as explaining in TOI that dual-task exercise means 'doing something physical while also challenging the brain', for example, walking while having a conversation. What Research Reveals A 2022 review, published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease and cited by TOI, examined how dual-task training, activities combining physical movement with mental challenges, affected older adults with cognitive decline. The review found that 2–5 weekly sessions, each lasting between 30 and 120 minutes, led to noticeable improvements in memory, attention, problem-solving, balance, and walking speed. Live Events The researchers also noted a surprising benefit: reduced levels of ß-amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. As reported in TOI, this is because dual-task activities require the brain to process information, coordinate movement, and maintain focus all at once. This simultaneous demand engages multiple brain networks, strengthens neural connections, and promotes neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and form new pathways. No Single Solution Experts emphasised, as reported in TOI, that no single habit can guarantee protection against Alzheimer's. The most effective strategy combines regular dual-task exercise with other healthy lifestyle choices, such as a balanced diet, staying socially engaged, and managing health conditions like hypertension and diabetes. The message is clear: while there is no magic bullet for preventing Alzheimer's, combining mental and physical stimulation through dual-task activities could be a valuable tool in preserving both cognitive skills and independence in later life.
NDTV
10 hours ago
- NDTV
Can Brisk Walking Help You Live Longer?
Brisk walking is a form of walking done at a faster pace than normal usually around 5–6 km/h. It's considered a moderate-intensity aerobic exercise that gets your heart pumping, improves blood circulation, and engages multiple muscle groups without putting excessive strain on the joints. Regular brisk walking can help maintain a healthy weight, lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular fitness, strengthen bones, and even boost mood by releasing feel-good endorphins. Since it's low-impact and accessible to most people, it's one of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve overall health and fitness. It can also help you live longer because it supports heart health, improves lung function, enhances metabolism, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and certain cancers. Studies show that even 30 minutes of brisk walking most days can lower inflammation, improve insulin sensitivity, and strengthen the immune system, all of which contribute to a healthier, more resilient body as you age. It also boosts mental well-being, reducing stress and depression, which are linked to longevity. In short, this simple habit acts like a natural 'health insurance,' helping your body stay strong and active for more years. Keep reading as we share a list of ways in which brisk walking can help you live longer. Here are 10 ways brisk walking can help you live longer 1. Strengthens heart health Brisk walking raises your heart rate, improving blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body. Over time, it helps lower LDL ('bad') cholesterol, increases HDL ('good') cholesterol, and reduces the risk of heart disease which is one of the leading causes of premature death. A healthier heart means your body can function more efficiently for many years. 2. Controls blood pressure Walking at a brisk pace helps blood vessels stay flexible and reduces arterial stiffness, which can lower high blood pressure. Since uncontrolled hypertension is a major risk factor for strokes and heart attacks, keeping it in check directly contributes to a longer, healthier life. 3. Improves blood sugar regulation Brisk walking improves the way your muscles use glucose for energy, enhancing insulin sensitivity. This lowers the risk of type 2 diabetes and helps those already diagnosed to manage their condition better, preventing long-term complications that can shorten life expectancy. 4. Reduces inflammation Chronic inflammation is linked to diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, and heart disease. Brisk walking promotes better circulation and reduces inflammatory markers in the body, lowering the chances of developing these life-shortening conditions. 5. Boosts lung capacity A faster walking pace requires deeper and more efficient breathing, which strengthens respiratory muscles and improves oxygen exchange in the lungs. Better lung function means your body can supply vital organs with the oxygen they need to function well over a lifetime. 6. Helps maintain a healthy weight Carrying excess weight strains the heart, joints, and metabolism. Brisk walking burns calories, supports fat loss, and helps maintain muscle mass. This balance reduces obesity-related risks such as heart disease, fatty liver, and sleep apnea, all of which can affect longevity. 7. Supports brain health Walking briskly increases blood flow to the brain, delivering oxygen and nutrients that protect against cognitive decline. Regular walkers have a lower risk of dementia, memory loss, and depression which helps preserve mental sharpness well into old age. 8. Strengthens bones and muscles The repetitive, weight-bearing nature of walking strengthens bones, reducing osteoporosis risk. Stronger bones and muscles lower the chance of falls and fractures, which are a major cause of disability and mortality in older adults. 9. Reduces stress and improves mood Walking outdoors, especially in nature, helps reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and boosts endorphin levels. Chronic stress can weaken immunity and accelerate aging, so this natural mood boost indirectly supports a longer life. 10. Improves sleep quality Brisk walking can help regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. Good-quality rest supports cell repair, hormone balance, and immune function which are factors that are crucial for long-term health and longevity. Add brisk walking to your workout routine today to liver longer. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
Time of India
11 hours ago
- Time of India
One exercise could boost memory and reduce dementia risk, says doctor
Alzheimer's disease affects an estimated 6.7 million older adults in the United States, a number expected to double by 2060. While it cannot be reversed, research shows there are steps that can lower the risk, and experts say one type of exercise stands out as especially effective. Dementia is one of the greatest global health challenges of the 21st century. Alzheimer's, the most common form, is a progressive and irreversible condition that causes functional, cognitive, and behavioral decline. Although age and genetics play a role, studies have found that around 35% of dementia risk is linked to modifiable factors such as high blood pressure in midlife, obesity, smoking, social isolation, hearing loss, depression, diabetes, and low physical activity. Physical activity has long been recognized as a protective factor for brain health, and new research points to a specific approach that may offer even greater benefits: dual-task exercise. Dr. Robert W.B. Love, a neuroscientist specializing in Alzheimer's prevention, recently spoke with Dr. Heather Sandison, a Naturopathic Doctor, who emphasized the importance of dual-task exercise. She explains that such an exercise involves engaging both our body cognitively and mentally. For example, walking while simultaneously talking to someone. What does research say? A 2022 review published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease examined how dual-task training, activities that combine physical movement with mental challenges, impacts older adults with cognitive decline. They found that 2–5 weekly sessions of 30–120 minutes each led to noticeable improvements in memory, attention, problem-solving, balance, and walking speed. Surprisingly, the researchers found that it reduced levels of β-amyloid, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. The reason, they explain, is that this kind of exercise forces the brain to process information, coordinate movement, and maintain focus all at once. That simultaneous demand engages multiple brain networks, strengthens neural connections, and promotes neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to adapt and form new pathways. Over time, this mental-physical synergy can help preserve both cognitive skills and physical independence, making it a valuable tool for dementia prevention. However, experts can't stress it enough that no single habit can guarantee protection against Alzheimer's. It is only by combining regular dual-task exercise with other healthy choices, such as a balanced diet, social engagement, and managing conditions like hypertension and diabetes, that people have a chance at lowering the risk. "Get the latest news updates on Times of India, including reviews of the movie Coolie and War 2 ."
