RESUMEN
Synaptic plasticity is the ability of synapses to weaken or strengthen over time, in response to changes in the activity of the neurons. It is orchestrated by a variety of genes, proteins, and external and internal factors, especially epigenetic factors. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are well-acknowledged epigenetic modulators that regulate the translation and degradation of target genes in the nervous system. Increasing evidence has suggested that a number of miRNAs play important roles in modulating various aspects of synaptic plasticity. The deregulation of miRNAs could be associated with pathological alterations in synaptic plasticity, which could lead to different CNS-related diseases. Herein, we provide an update on the role of miRNAs in governing synaptic plasticity. In addition, we also summarize recent researches on the role of miRNAs in drug addiction, and their targets and mechanism of action. Understanding of the way in which miRNAs contribute to synaptic plasticity provides rational clues in establishing the novel biomarkers and new therapeutic strategies for the diagnosis and treatment of plasticity-related diseases and drug addiction.
Asunto(s)
Enfermedades del Sistema Nervioso Central , MicroARNs , Trastornos Relacionados con Sustancias , Humanos , MicroARNs/metabolismo , Plasticidad Neuronal/genética , Neuronas/metabolismo , Trastornos Relacionados con Sustancias/genética , Trastornos Relacionados con Sustancias/terapia , Sinapsis/metabolismoRESUMEN
Parkinson's disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by dopaminergic neurodegeneration and deposition of alpha-synuclein. Mechanisms associated with PD etiology include oxidative stress, apoptosis, autophagy, and abnormalities in neurotransmission, to name a few. Drugs used to treat PD have shown significant limitations in their efficacy. Therefore, recent focus has been placed on the potential of active plant ingredients as alternative, complementary, and efficient treatments. Berberine is an isoquinoline alkaloid that has shown promise as a pharmacological treatment in PD, given its ability to modulate several molecular pathway associated with the disease. Here, we review contemporary knowledge supporting the need to further characterize berberine as a potential treatment for PD.
Asunto(s)
Berberina , Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas , Enfermedad de Parkinson , Autofagia , Berberina/uso terapéutico , Neuronas Dopaminérgicas/metabolismo , Humanos , Enfermedades Neurodegenerativas/metabolismo , Estrés Oxidativo , Enfermedad de Parkinson/tratamiento farmacológico , Enfermedad de Parkinson/metabolismo , alfa-Sinucleína/metabolismoRESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: Migraine is ranked as the seventh leading cause of disability worldwide, and it is characterized by a manifestation of combined neurological, gastrointestinal, and autonomic symptoms linked with different provoking factors. Aim of the study: This study investigates the association between migraine without aura and depression. METHOD: A total number of 100 patients were enrolled in the study and were divided into two groups: 50 individuals with confirmed migraine without aura (the study group) and 50 individuals with no history of headaches (control group). All individuals were evaluated using the ICHD- II diagnostic criteria for migraine, as well as the Beck test for depression. RESULTS: Statistical analysis showed a significant relationship between migraine without aura and depression (p=0.023), but no significant association between depression and BMI, migraine length, gender, family history of depression, alcoholism, smoking cigarettes and number of drugs consumed. CONCLUSIONS: Based on our data we can confirm an association between depression and migraine without aura.