Antioxidant effects of curcumin and neuroaging

A decline in memory, attention, and problem-solving are often observed in normal aging; however, this decline is accelerated in aging-related disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease. Several physiological pathways underpin cognitive decline, particularly the damage caused by oxidative stress, and subsequent neuronal death. Antioxidants can protect against this damage; however, the aging brain also becomes increasingly susceptible to dysfunctional antioxidant activity. Curcumin, a plant-based polyphenol, is known to scavenge free radicals and promote antioxidant activity. This chapter gives an overview of the molecular evidence that curcumin prevents oxidative stress, cellular senescence, and death. In addition, curcumin’s role in protection against memory impairment as evidenced by brain imaging studies is reviewed. Although there are limited published clinical trials, there is preliminary evidence for curcumin improving memory and decreasing amyloid-β plaque accumulation. Consequently, curcumin has potential as a therapy in aging and aging-related disorders and further studies on its properties are warranted.