Scientists have just found promising clues suggesting that natural compounds in aloe vera may play a significant role in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.
Using advanced computer models, the research team identified beta-sitosterol – a plant compound – that has a strong potential to interact with enzymes that cause memory and cognitive decline.
This new research, published in the journal Current Pharmaceutical Analysis, comes as the medical community continues its search for effective treatments for Alzheimer's – a neurodegenerative disease that severely impacts thinking and behavior. While aloe vera is well-known for its soothing and skin-care properties, scientists decided to delve deeper into the hidden chemical components within the plant to see if they might influence biological processes in the brain.
The research focuses on two key enzymes: acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE). In the human body, these two enzymes play a role in breaking down acetylcholine – a crucial neurotransmitter that helps brain cells communicate with each other. In Alzheimer's patients, acetylcholine levels are often severely reduced, leading to memory loss. Therefore, a common treatment strategy is to find drugs that can inhibit the activity of AChE and BChE, thereby preserving acetylcholine levels and improving symptoms for patients.
Instead of conducting traditional laboratory experiments, the research team used an "in silico" (computer simulation) approach. This modern approach allows scientists to accurately predict how drug molecules will interact with the body before conducting actual trials.
Screening results showed that beta-sitosterol, a compound found in aloe vera, emerged as the most promising candidate. The research team used "molecular binding" techniques and dynamic simulations to test it. The results indicated that beta-sitosterol has a very strong binding affinity (-8.6 kcal/mol with AChE and -8.7 kcal/mol with BChE), significantly superior to other compounds tested, including succinic acid. This strong binding ability suggests that the compound may effectively inhibit the activity of harmful enzymes.
"Our findings show that beta-sitosterol exhibits significant binding affinity and stability," said Meriem Khedraoui, the study's lead author. "This makes it a potential candidate for future drug development, particularly as a dual inhibitor to help manage Alzheimer's disease."
In addition to their enzyme-inhibiting effects, the research team also assessed the safety of the compounds through ADMET (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, Excretion, and Toxicity) analysis. Predictive indicators showed that both beta-sitosterol and succinic acid had favorable safety profiles, were readily absorbed into the body, and did not cause toxicity at therapeutic doses. Samir Chtita, co-author of the study, affirmed that these comprehensive analyses support their potential as safe therapeutic agents.
Although the results from the computer model are very promising, the researchers also emphasized that this is only the initial stage. Laboratory and clinical trials will be the next necessary steps to confirm the actual effectiveness in patients. However, this research has laid an important foundation, opening up hope for a new, safer, and more effective plant-based Alzheimer's therapy in the future.