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Dutta S, Shah RB, Singhal S, Dutta SB, Bansal S, Sinha S, Haque M. Metformin: A Review of Potential Mechanism and Therapeutic Utility Beyond Diabetes. Drug Des Devel Ther 2023; 17:1907-1932. [PMID: 37397787 PMCID: PMC10312383 DOI: 10.2147/dddt.s409373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Metformin has been designated as one of the most crucial first-line therapeutic agents in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Primarily being an antihyperglycemic agent, metformin also has a plethora of pleiotropic effects on various systems and processes. It acts majorly by activating AMPK (Adenosine Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase) in the cells and reducing glucose output from the liver. It also decreases advanced glycation end products and reactive oxygen species production in the endothelium apart from regulating the glucose and lipid metabolism in the cardiomyocytes, hence minimizing the cardiovascular risks. Its anticancer, antiproliferative and apoptosis-inducing effects on malignant cells might prove instrumental in the malignancy of organs like the breast, kidney, brain, ovary, lung, and endometrium. Preclinical studies have also shown some evidence of metformin's neuroprotective role in Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis and Huntington's disease. Metformin exerts its pleiotropic effects through varied pathways of intracellular signalling and exact mechanism in the majority of them remains yet to be clearly defined. This article has extensively reviewed the therapeutic benefits of metformin and the details of its mechanism for a molecule of boon in various conditions like diabetes, prediabetes, obesity, polycystic ovarian disease, metabolic derangement in HIV, various cancers and aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhartha Dutta
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
| | - Rima B Shah
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
| | - Shubha Singhal
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
| | - Sudeshna Banerjee Dutta
- Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Shri Anand Institute of Nursing, Rajkot, Gujarat, 360005, India
| | - Sumit Bansal
- Department of Anaesthesiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Rajkot, Gujarat, India
| | - Susmita Sinha
- Department of Physiology, Khulna City Medical College and Hospital, Khulna, Bangladesh
| | - Mainul Haque
- Unit of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
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Dong Y, Qi Y, Jiang H, Mi T, Zhang Y, Peng C, Li W, Zhang Y, Zhou Y, Zang Y, Li J. The development and benefits of metformin in various diseases. Front Med 2023; 17:388-431. [PMID: 37402952 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-023-0998-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/06/2023]
Abstract
Metformin has been used for the treatment of type II diabetes mellitus for decades due to its safety, low cost, and outstanding hypoglycemic effect clinically. The mechanisms underlying these benefits are complex and still not fully understood. Inhibition of mitochondrial respiratory-chain complex I is the most described downstream mechanism of metformin, leading to reduced ATP production and activation of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK). Meanwhile, many novel targets of metformin have been gradually discovered. In recent years, multiple pre-clinical and clinical studies are committed to extend the indications of metformin in addition to diabetes. Herein, we summarized the benefits of metformin in four types of diseases, including metabolic associated diseases, cancer, aging and age-related diseases, neurological disorders. We comprehensively discussed the pharmacokinetic properties and the mechanisms of action, treatment strategies, the clinical application, the potential risk of metformin in various diseases. This review provides a brief summary of the benefits and concerns of metformin, aiming to interest scientists to consider and explore the common and specific mechanisms and guiding for the further research. Although there have been countless studies of metformin, longitudinal research in each field is still much warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Dong
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yingbei Qi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Haowen Jiang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Tian Mi
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
| | - Yunkai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Chang Peng
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wanchen Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Yongmei Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China
| | - Yubo Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Zhongshan Institute for Drug Discovery, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Zhongshan, 528400, China.
| | - Yi Zang
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- Lingang Laboratory, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
| | - Jia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Drug Research, Shanghai Institute of Materia Medica, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, 201203, China.
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China.
- Open Studio for Druggability Research of Marine Natural Products, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology (Qingdao), Qingdao, 266237, China.
- School of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou, 310024, China.
- Shandong Laboratory of Yantai Drug Discovery, Bohai Rim Advanced Research Institute for Drug Discovery, Yantai, 264117, China.
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Abdelhafiz AH. Effects of hypoglycaemic therapy on frailty: a multi-dimensional perspective. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2023; 18:53-65. [PMID: 36650694 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2168644] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The prevalence of diabetes is increasing in older people. With increasing age, frailty emerges as a new complication leading to disability. Frailty does not only include physical dysfunction but also involves negative impact on cognition and mood. Triad of impairments (TOI) is a new concept that includes physical frailty, dementia and depression to reflect the wider spectrum of frailty. AREAS COVERED Little is known about effects of hypoglycaemic agents on frailty syndrome. A literature search was performed on studies, which reported effects of hypoglycaemic agents on the component of the TOI. EXPERT OPINION It appears that most hypoglycaemic agents have some effects on frailty, although the results of clinical studies are inconsistent. Metformin seems to have a consistent and a positive effect on physical frailty. Its effects on cognitive function, however, are inconclusive but tend to be positive. Metformin appeared to improve depressive symptoms. Other agents such as incretins, thiazolidinediones, and sodium glucose transporter-2 inhibitors have some positive effects on cognition and depression. Sulfonylureas, glinides, or insulin have either negative or neutral effects on TOI components. The negative effects of insulin could be partially explained by the negative psychological factors and the frequent episodes of hypoglycemia associated with such therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed H Abdelhafiz
- Department of Geriatric Medicine, Rotherham General Hospital, Moorgate Road, Rotherham, UK
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Zhang JH, Zhang XY, Sun YQ, Lv RH, Chen M, Li M. Metformin use is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive impairment in adults with diabetes mellitus: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Neurosci 2022; 16:984559. [PMID: 36090264 PMCID: PMC9453211 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2022.984559] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Controversy exists regarding the impact of metformin and whether it prevents or promotes the incidence of cognitive dysfunction. This systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to identify the effect of metformin therapy on cognitive function in patients with diabetes. Methods Electronic databases (PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Library, and Web of Science) were systematically searched by two investigators from the date of inception until March 1, 2022. The study followed PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria were defined according to the PECOSmodel. Eligible studies investigated cognitive dysfunction in metformin users compared with non-users in adults with diabetes. Only observational study designs (such as cohort, cross-section, and case-control) were included. Results A systematic search identified 1,839 articles, of which 28 (17 cohort, 8 case-control, and 3 cross-sectional studies) were included in the meta-analysis. Metformin reduced the occurrence of cognitive impairment in patients with diabetes [unadjusted hazard ratio (HR) = 0.67, 95% CI: 0.62–0.73; adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 0.92, 95% CI: 0.85–0.99]. In addition, the use of metformin was associated with a decreased risk of dementia (HR = 0.64, 95% CI: 0.59–0.69; aHR = 0.90, 95% CI: 0.84–0.96), while a random-effects meta-analysis indicated no significant effect of metformin on the risk of Alzheimer's disease (AD) (HR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.60–1.22; aHR = 1.10, 95% CI: 0.95–1.28). Conclusion Metformin therapy decreased the occurrence risk of cognitive decline in patients with diabetes mellitus. Moreover, the use of metformin by adults with diabetes for the prevention of dementia, but not AD, is supported by the available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jia-Hao Zhang
- Laboratory of Laser Sports Medicine, School of Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Xin-Yang Zhang
- Laboratory of Laser Sports Medicine, School of Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Xin-Yang Zhang
| | - Yan-Qiu Sun
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Guangdong Women and Children Hospital, Guangzhou, China
| | - Ren-Hua Lv
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Xiangtan Central Hospital, Xiangtan, China
| | - Mei Chen
- Laboratory of Laser Sports Medicine, School of Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Meng Li
- Laboratory of Laser Sports Medicine, School of Sports Science, South China Normal University, Guangzhou, China
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Chai YH, Zhang YP, Qiao YS, Gong HJ, Xu H, She HC, Patel I, Liu W, Stehouwer CDA, Zhou JB, Simó R. Association Between Diabetic Retinopathy, Brain Structural Abnormalities, and Cognitive Impairment for Accumulated Evidence in Observational Studies. Am J Ophthalmol 2022; 239:37-53. [PMID: 35063409 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2022.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 01/07/2022] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the association between diabetic retinopathy (DR) and cerebral disease or cognitive impairment. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. METHOD The hypothesis was formulated prior to data collection. Cross-sectional studies and cohort studies that assessed the association between any measure of DR and cerebral small vessel disease or any type of cognitive impairment in diabetic participants were included. The data were independently extracted by two investigators. This systematic review and meta-analysis adhered to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines RESULTS: A total of 27 studies were included. The combined odds ratio of 5 cross-sectional/cohort studies that reported that the associations between DR and cerebral structural changes was 1.75 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.36-2.25). The combined hazard ratio of 4 cohort studies that examined the association between DR and cognitive impairment events was 1.47 (95% CI: 1.22-1.78). The combined odds ratio of 14 cross-sectional/cohort studies that examined the association between DR and different cognitive impairment events was 1.43 (95% CI: 1.06-1.93). The overall coefficient (β) of 4 studies that examined the relationship between DR and specific cognitive performance was 0.09 (95% CI: 0.00-0.18). Considering the quality of the data, we have performed subgroup analysis in studies scored >7 and studies scored ≤7, respectively, according to the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. CONCLUSION The present meta-analysis suggests that DR is associated with an increased risk of structural abnormalities in the brain and cognitive impairment. This association remained significant after adjusting for blood glucose, and the presence of hypertension, indicating that DR is an important danger signal for cerebral abnormalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yin-He Chai
- From the Department of Endocrinology (Y.-H.C., Y.-S.Q, H.-J.G, H.X., I.P., W.L. J.B.Z.), Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yong-Peng Zhang
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center (Y.P.Z., H.C.S.), Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Yu-Shun Qiao
- From the Department of Endocrinology (Y.-H.C., Y.-S.Q, H.-J.G, H.X., I.P., W.L. J.B.Z.), Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hong-Jian Gong
- From the Department of Endocrinology (Y.-H.C., Y.-S.Q, H.-J.G, H.X., I.P., W.L. J.B.Z.), Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hui Xu
- From the Department of Endocrinology (Y.-H.C., Y.-S.Q, H.-J.G, H.X., I.P., W.L. J.B.Z.), Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Hai-Cheng She
- Beijing Tongren Eye Center (Y.P.Z., H.C.S.), Beijing Key Laboratory of Ophthalmology and Visual Science, Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Ikramulhaq Patel
- From the Department of Endocrinology (Y.-H.C., Y.-S.Q, H.-J.G, H.X., I.P., W.L. J.B.Z.), Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Liu
- From the Department of Endocrinology (Y.-H.C., Y.-S.Q, H.-J.G, H.X., I.P., W.L. J.B.Z.), Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - Coen D A Stehouwer
- Department of Internal Medicine and CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases (C.D.A.S.), Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Jian-Bo Zhou
- From the Department of Endocrinology (Y.-H.C., Y.-S.Q, H.-J.G, H.X., I.P., W.L. J.B.Z.), Beijing Tongren Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China.
| | - Rafael Simó
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition (R.S.), Vall d'Hebron University Hospital, Autonomous University, Barcelona, Spain; Diabetes and Metabolism Research Unit (R.S.), Vall d'Hebron Research Institute (VHIR), Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM) (R.S.), Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ICSIII), Madrid, Spain
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Tabatabaei Malazy O, Bandarian F, Qorbani M, Mohseni S, Mirsadeghi S, Peimani M, Larijani B. The effect of metformin on cognitive function: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Psychopharmacol 2022; 36:666-679. [PMID: 35297284 DOI: 10.1177/02698811211057304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Most people are familiar with metformin as a diabetic treatment option. Different positive benefits have been found for it, in addition to its anti-diabetes properties. Cognitive function enhancement is the most recent characteristic that has been studied. This study aimed to look at the evidence on the effects of metformin on cognitive performance. Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, the Cochrane Library, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases were searched systematically. After eliminating duplicates and irrelevant documents, the findings were screened. The documents that remained were scanned and data were extracted. Nineteen studies were qualified for meta-analysis after evaluating 3827 identified records. There was no significant relationship between metformin therapy and cognitive performance in none of the studies including cross-sectionals, cohorts, and clinical trials (p > 0.05). Results show that metformin has no significant effect on improving cognitive function or protecting against any dementia including vascular dementia and Alzheimer's disease, and cognitive impairment as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozra Tabatabaei Malazy
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.,Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Bandarian
- Diabetes Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mostafa Qorbani
- Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Shahrzad Mohseni
- Evidence Based Medicine Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Somayeh Mirsadeghi
- Elderly Health Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Population Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Maryam Peimani
- Metabolomics and Genomics Research Center Endocrinology and Metabolism Molecular-Cellular Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bagher Larijani
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Wu CY, Shapiro L, Ouk M, MacIntosh BJ, Black SE, Shah BR, Swardfager W. Glucose-lowering drugs, cognition, and dementia: The clinical evidence. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2022; 137:104654. [PMID: 35398114 DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2022.104654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Revised: 04/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is an important risk factor for dementia. The possibility to mitigate this risk by controlling T2DM is compelling; however, different glucose-lowering drugs have different effects on the brain by virtue of their different mechanisms of action. The clinical and epidemiological data appear mixed, warranting careful critical evaluation of the human studies. Here we examine the evidence in the context of dementia prevention and treatment, both for people with and without T2DM. We discuss the evidence on this scaffold of research directions, identifying methodological complexities in the extant literature (e.g. comparator discrepancies, changes in the therapeutic landscape), and the implications of different outcome measures (e.g. neuropsychological). We consider possible implications of cerebrovascular protection vs. effects on progression of neurodegenerative proteinopathy, and we present a research roadmap for glucose-lowering drugs in cognitive neurology, including neuroimaging, and fluid biomarkers. We conclude that there is great potential to advance personalized strategies to prevent and treat dementia with glucose-lowering drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Che-Yuan Wu
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lila Shapiro
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Michael Ouk
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Bradley J MacIntosh
- Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sandra E Black
- Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, Division of Neurology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Toronto Dementia Research Alliance, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Baiju R Shah
- ICES, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Divisions of Endocrinology and Obstetric Medicine, Department of Medicine, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Walter Swardfager
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Sandra Black Centre for Brain Resilience and Recovery, Hurvitz Brain Sciences Program, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Canadian Partnership for Stroke Recovery, Sunnybrook Research Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; KITE UHN Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Madhu LN, Kodali M, Shetty AK. Promise of metformin for preventing age-related cognitive dysfunction. Neural Regen Res 2022; 17:503-507. [PMID: 34380878 PMCID: PMC8504370 DOI: 10.4103/1673-5374.320971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
The expanded lifespan of people, while a positive advance, has also amplified the prevalence of age-related disorders, which include mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and Alzheimer's disease. Therefore, competent therapies that could improve the healthspan of people have great significance. Some of the dietary and pharmacological approaches that augment the lifespan could also preserve improved cognitive function in old age. Metformin, a drug widely used for treating diabetes, is one such candidate that could alleviate age-related cognitive dysfunction. However, the possible use of metformin to alleviate age-related cognitive dysfunction has met with conflicting results in human and animal studies. While most clinical studies have suggested the promise of metformin to maintain better cognitive function and reduce the risk for developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease in aged diabetic people, its efficacy in the nondiabetic population is still unclear. Moreover, a previous animal model study implied that metformin could adversely affect cognitive function in the aged. However, a recent animal study using multiple behavioral tests has reported that metformin treatment in late middle age improved cognitive function in old age. The study also revealed that cognition-enhancing effects of metformin in aged animals were associated with the activation of the energy regulator adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, diminished neuroinflammation, inhibition of the mammalian target of rapamycin signaling, and augmented autophagy in the hippocampus. The proficiency of metformin to facilitate these favorable modifications in the aged hippocampus likely underlies its positive effect on cognitive function. Nonetheless, additional studies probing the outcomes of different doses and durations of metformin treatment at specific windows in the middle and old age across sex in nondiabetic and non-obese prototypes are required to substantiate the promise of metformin to maintain better cognitive function in old age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leelavathi N Madhu
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Maheedhar Kodali
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Ashok K Shetty
- Institute for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, Texas A&M University College of Medicine, College Station, TX, USA
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Neumann NR, Thompson DC, Vasiliou V. AMPK activators for the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2021; 17:1199-1210. [PMID: 34632898 DOI: 10.1080/17425255.2021.1991308] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION As the global population ages at an unprecedented rate, the burden of neurodegenerative diseases is expected to grow. Given the profound impact illness like dementia exert on individuals and society writ large, researchers, physicians, and scientific organizations have called for increased investigation into their treatment and prevention. Both metformin and aspirin have been associated with improved cognitive outcomes. These agents are related in their ability to stimulate AMP kinase (AMPK). Momordica charantia, another AMPK activator, is a component of traditional medicines and a novel agent for the treatment of cancer. It is also being evaluated as a nootropic agent. AREAS COVERED This article is a comprehensive review which examines the role of AMPK activation in neuroprotection and the role that AMPK activators may have in the management of dementia and cognitive impairment. It evaluates the interaction of metformin, aspirin, and Momordica charantia, with AMPK, and reviews the literature characterizing these agents' impact on neurodegeneration. EXPERT OPINION We suggest that AMPK activators should be considered for the treatment and prevention of neurodegenerative diseases. We identify multiple areas of future investigation which may have a profound impact on patients worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie R Neumann
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - David C Thompson
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, University of Colorado Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - Vasilis Vasiliou
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
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10
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Pedersen HE, Sandvik CH, Subhi Y, Grauslund J, Pedersen FN. Relationship between Diabetic Retinopathy and Systemic Neurodegenerative Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Ophthalmol Retina 2021; 6:139-152. [PMID: 34256192 DOI: 10.1016/j.oret.2021.07.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Revised: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
TOPIC To examine the potential role of systemic neurodegeneration, this study aimed to provide an overview of the available evidence on the relationship between diabetic retinopathy (DR) and systemic neurodegeneration. CLINICAL RELEVANCE The association between DR and systemic neurodegeneration is inconsistent in the literature. A summary estimate on the measures of association is important to establish whether DR may be used as a risk marker of systemic neurodegeneration. METHODS We searched the literature databases PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library on October 3, 2020, for all observational studies on humans evaluating the association between DR and systemic neurodegenerative diseases. Two authors conducted the literature search, study selection, and data extraction in an independent fashion. Studies were reviewed qualitatively in text and quantitatively in meta-analyses. Heterogeneity was evaluated with Cochran's Q and I2, and Funnel plot was used to investigate for skewed results and possible publication bias. RESULTS We identified 27 eligible studies with a total of 1 398 041 patients with diabetes. Diagnosis of DR was made using fundus photography or examination (n = 20), health registries (n = 4), was self-reported (n = 1), or was not disclosed in the remaining studies. Neurodegenerative conditions studied were cognitive impairment (n = 23), Alzheimer's disease (n = 3), and Parkinson's disease (n = 1). In cross-sectional and longitudinal studies, respectively, presence of any DR was associated with present (odds ratio [OR], 1.57; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02-2.43, P = 0.043) and incident (OR, 2.36; 95% CI, 1.50-3.71, P = 0.00021) systemic neurodegeneration, but severity of DR was not associated with differences in systemic neurodegeneration (OR, 0.98; 95% CI, 0.45-2.15, P = 0.96). CONCLUSIONS In this systematic review, DR appears to be a marker of systemic neurodegeneration. Further studies are warranted to better elucidate the clinical practical implications of this relationship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helene E Pedersen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Caroline H Sandvik
- Department of Ophthalmology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Yousif Subhi
- Department of Ophthalmology, Zealand University Hospital, Roskilde, Denmark; Department of Ophthalmology, Rigshospitalet, Glostrup, Denmark
| | - Jakob Grauslund
- Department of Ophthalmology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark; Steno Diabetes Center Odense, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Frederik N Pedersen
- Department of Ophthalmology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark; Research Unit of Ophthalmology, Department of Clinical Research, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark.
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11
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García-Viñuales S, Sciacca MFM, Lanza V, Santoro AM, Grasso G, Tundo GR, Sbardella D, Coletta M, Grasso G, La Rosa C, Milardi D. The interplay between lipid and Aβ amyloid homeostasis in Alzheimer's Disease: risk factors and therapeutic opportunities. Chem Phys Lipids 2021; 236:105072. [PMID: 33675779 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemphyslip.2021.105072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Alzheimer's Diseases (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid deposits of Aβ peptide in the brain. Besides genetic background, the presence of other diseases and an unhealthy lifestyle are known risk factors for AD development. Albeit accumulating clinical evidence suggests that an impaired lipid metabolism is related to Aβ deposition, mechanistic insights on the link between amyloid fibril formation/clearance and aberrant lipid interactions are still unavailable. Recently, many studies have described the key role played by membrane bound Aβ assemblies in neurotoxicity. Moreover, it has been suggested that a derangement of the ubiquitin proteasome pathway and autophagy is significantly correlated with toxic Aβ aggregation and dysregulation of lipid levels. Thus, studies focusing on the role played by lipids in Aβ aggregation and proteostasis could represent a promising area of investigation for the design of valuable treatments. In this review we examine current knowledge concerning the effects of lipids in Aβ aggregation and degradation processes, focusing on the therapeutic opportunities that a comprehensive understanding of all biophysical, biochemical, and biological processes involved may disclose.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michele F M Sciacca
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Cristallografia, Catania, Italy
| | - Valeria Lanza
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Cristallografia, Catania, Italy
| | - Anna Maria Santoro
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Cristallografia, Catania, Italy
| | - Giulia Grasso
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Cristallografia, Catania, Italy
| | - Grazia R Tundo
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Massimiliano Coletta
- Department of Clinical Sciences and Translational Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Grasso
- Department of Chemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Carmelo La Rosa
- Department of Chemistry, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Danilo Milardi
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Cristallografia, Catania, Italy.
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12
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Ping F, Jiang N, Li Y. Association between metformin and neurodegenerative diseases of observational studies: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open Diabetes Res Care 2020; 8:8/1/e001370. [PMID: 32719079 PMCID: PMC7390234 DOI: 10.1136/bmjdrc-2020-001370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 06/16/2020] [Accepted: 06/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Aging becomes a growing global concern with an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) that mainly consist of cognitive decline and Parkinson disease (PD). As the most commonly prescribed antidiabetic drug, metformin has been shown to have inconsistent roles in the incidence of NDs. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies to evaluate the effect of metformin exposure on onset of NDs. METHODS The observational studies that investigated the associations between metformin and the incidence of NDs were searched in MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library databases. A random-effect model was performed using STATA to calculate the combined ORs. RESULTS In total, 23 comparisons out of 19 studies with 285 966 participants were included. Meta-analysis found there was no significant effect on incidence of all the subtypes of NDs with metformin exposure (OR 1.04, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.17). However, metformin monotherapy was associated with a significantly increased risk of PD incidence compared with non-metformin users or glitazone users (OR 1.66, 95% CI 1.14 to 2.42). CONCLUSION Metformin has failed to demonstrate a beneficial effect on NDs. In addition, it may increase the risk of PD development. In light of current results, how metformin would impact NDs, especially the potential risk of PD, needs to be scrutinized. The underlying mechanisms are vital to achieve some more profound understanding on the regimen. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD 42019133285.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fan Ping
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Ning Jiang
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
| | - Yuxiu Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Beijing, China
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13
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Obafemi TO, Olasehinde OR, Olaoye OA, Jaiyesimi KF, Adewumi FD, Adewale OB, Afolabi BA. Metformin/Donepezil combination modulates brain antioxidant status and hippocampal endoplasmic reticulum stress in type 2 diabetic rats. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2020; 19:499-510. [PMID: 32550202 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-020-00541-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Revised: 04/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Diabetes mellitus is associated with perturbations in brain biochemical parameters associated with dementia. This study aimed at comparing the effect of metformin and metformin/donepezil combination on oxidative stress, endoplasmic reticulum stress and inflammation in the brain of diabetic Wistar rats. Methods Diabetes was induced by single intraperitoneal injection of 40 mg/kg streptozotocin after administration of 10% fructose for 14 days. Animals were randomly assigned to four groups of five animals each. Group 1 was the normal control and received only distilled water. Groups 2 and 3 were diabetic rats treated with metformin/donepezil combination and metformin only respectively, while group 4 was diabetic control. Treatment lasted for 21 days after confirmation of diabetes. Activities of acetylcholinesterase (AchE), butyrylcholinesterase (BchE), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and catalase were evaluated in the brain of diabetic rats. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to estimate brain levels of tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), interleukin-6 (IL-6) malondialdehyde and glucose transporter-4 (GLUT4), while expression of endoplasmic reticulum stress markers - glucose regulated protein-78 (GRP78), activating transcription factor-4 (ATF4) and C/EBP homologous protein (CHOP) was determined using real-time PCR in the hippocampus of diabetic rats. Results Treatment with metformin/donepezil combination significantly reduced the activities of AchE, BchE as well as levels of malondialdehyde, TNF-α and IL-6, while the activities of SOD, GPx and catalase were significantly increased in the brain. Moreover, expression of ER stress markers was attenuated in the hippocampus. Conclusion Metformin/donepezil combination appeared more efficacious than metformin only and could be considered for managing diabetes-associated dementia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tajudeen Olabisi Obafemi
- Biochemistry Programme, Department of Chemical Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, PMB 5454 Nigeria
| | - Oluwaseun R Olasehinde
- Medical Biochemistry Unit, College of Health Sciences, Afe Babalola University, PMB 5454, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Oyindamola A Olaoye
- Biochemistry Programme, Department of Chemical Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, PMB 5454 Nigeria
| | - Kikelomo F Jaiyesimi
- Biochemistry Programme, Department of Chemical Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, PMB 5454 Nigeria
| | - Funmilayo D Adewumi
- Industrial Chemistry Programme, Department of Chemical Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, PMB 5454 Nigeria
| | - Olusola B Adewale
- Biochemistry Programme, Department of Chemical Sciences, Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, PMB 5454 Nigeria
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14
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Zhang QQ, Li WS, Liu Z, Zhang HL, Ba YG, Zhang RX. Metformin therapy and cognitive dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes: A meta-analysis and systematic review. Medicine (Baltimore) 2020; 99:e19378. [PMID: 32150083 PMCID: PMC7478804 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000019378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Type 2 diabetes (T2D) is a risk factor for cognitive dysfunction. The relationship between metformin therapy and cognitive function in patients with T2D is unknown. Therefore, we determined the relationship between metformin therapy and cognitive function in patients with T2D using a meta-analysis. METHODS We systematically searched the Cochrane library, PubMed, and Embase to identify studies showing correlations, and we calculated hazard ratios (HRs). RESULTS We identified 10 studies including 254,679 participants. Metformin significantly reduced the occurrence of cognitive dysfunction in patients with T2D (HR 0.90; 95% CI [0.88, 0.92]). Compared with other hypoglycemic drugs, sulfonylureas also improved cognitive dysfunction (HR 0.92; 95% CI [0.88, 0.95]). Thiazolidinediones gave no statistically significant improvement in cognitive dysfunction (HR 0.97; 95% CI [0.87, 1.07]). The use of insulin aggravated cognitive dysfunction (HR 1.34; 95% CI [1.24, 1.43]). In the subgroup analysis of various regions controlling for age, gender, education, diabetes course, complications, metformin administration and dosage, and follow-up time, metformin significantly improved cognitive dysfunction in patients in the Americas and Europe (HR 0.69; 95% CI [0.63, 0.74]), (HR 0.71; 95% CI [0.66, 0.76], respectively), while metformin did not significantly improve cognitive dysfunction in Asian patients (HR 0.99; 95% CI [0.96, 1.01]). CONCLUSIONS Metformin significantly improved cognitive dysfunction in patients with T2D. Sulfonylureas also improved cognitive dysfunction. Thiazolidinediones had no significant effect on cognitive dysfunction. The use of insulin aggravated cognitive dysfunction. Metformin improved cognitive dysfunction more significantly in patients in the Americas and Europe than in Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qing-Qing Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital
| | - Wen-Shan Li
- Department of Neurosurgery, Qinghai Provincial People's Hospital
| | - Zhou Liu
- Graduate School of Qinghai University
| | - Hui-Li Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital
| | - Ying-Gui Ba
- Department of Nephrology, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital Xining, Qinghai, China
| | - Rui-Xia Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Qinghai University Affiliated Hospital
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15
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Campbell JM, Stephenson MD, de Courten B, Chapman I, Bellman SM, Aromataris E. Metformin Use Associated with Reduced Risk of Dementia in Patients with Diabetes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. J Alzheimers Dis 2019; 65:1225-1236. [PMID: 30149446 PMCID: PMC6218120 DOI: 10.3233/jad-180263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Background: Metformin, a first line antihyperglycemic medication, is an AMPK activator and has been hypothesized to act as a geroprotective agent. Studies on its association with various classifications of age-related cognitive decline have shown mixed results with positive and negative findings. Objective: To synthesize the best available evidence on the association of metformin-use with risk, progression, and severity of dementia. Method: Eligible research investigated the effect of metformin on dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, or any measure of cognitive impairment compared to any control group who were not receiving metformin. The initial search resulted in 862 citations from which 14 studies (seven cohort, four cross-sectional, two RCTs, and one case control) were included. Results: Meta-analysis of three studies showed that cognitive impairment was significantly less prevalent in diabetic metformin (Odds ratio = 0.55, 95% CI 0.38 to 0.78), while six studies showed that dementia incidence was also significantly reduced (Hazard ratio = 0.76, 95% CI 0.39 to 0.88). Mini-Mental State Examination scores were not significantly affected by metformin-use, although both RCTs showed that metformin had a neuroprotective effect compared to placebo. Some studies found negative or neutral effects for metformin use by people with diabetes; the potential mechanism of metformin-induced vitamin B12 deficiency is discussed. Conclusions: Metformin should continue to be used as a first line therapy for diabetes in patients at risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. The use of metformin by individuals without diabetes for the prevention of dementia is not supported by the available evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared M Campbell
- Joanna Briggs Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, South Australia.,Centre for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales
| | - Matthew D Stephenson
- Joanna Briggs Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Barbora de Courten
- Monash Centre for Health, Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ian Chapman
- Discipline of Medicine, National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence in Translating Nutritional Science to Good Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Susan M Bellman
- Joanna Briggs Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Edoardo Aromataris
- Joanna Briggs Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, South Australia
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16
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Rotermund C, Machetanz G, Fitzgerald JC. The Therapeutic Potential of Metformin in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:400. [PMID: 30072954 PMCID: PMC6060268 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 194] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The search for treatments for neurodegenerative diseases is a major concern in light of today's aging population and an increasing burden on individuals, families, and society. Although great advances have been made in the last decades to understand the underlying genetic and biological cause of these diseases, only some symptomatic treatments are available. Metformin has long since been used to treat Type 2 Diabetes and has been shown to be beneficial in several other conditions. Metformin is well-tested in vitro and in vivo and an approved compound that targets diverse pathways including mitochondrial energy production and insulin signaling. There is growing evidence for the benefits of metformin to counteract age-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. We will discuss evidence showing that certain neurodegenerative diseases and diabetes are explicitly linked and that metformin along with other diabetes drugs can reduce neurological symptoms in some patients and reduce disease phenotypes in animal and cell models. An interesting therapeutic factor might be how metformin is able to balance survival and death signaling in cells through pathways that are commonly associated with neurodegenerative diseases. In healthy neurons, these overarching signals keep energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and proteostasis in check, avoiding the dysfunction and neuronal death that defines neurodegenerative disease. We will discuss the biological mechanisms involved and the relevance of neuronal vulnerability and potential difficulties for future trials and development of therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gerrit Machetanz
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Centre of Neurology and Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julia C. Fitzgerald
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Centre of Neurology and Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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17
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Rotermund C, Machetanz G, Fitzgerald JC. The Therapeutic Potential of Metformin in Neurodegenerative Diseases. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:400. [PMID: 30072954 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00400/xml/nlm] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
The search for treatments for neurodegenerative diseases is a major concern in light of today's aging population and an increasing burden on individuals, families, and society. Although great advances have been made in the last decades to understand the underlying genetic and biological cause of these diseases, only some symptomatic treatments are available. Metformin has long since been used to treat Type 2 Diabetes and has been shown to be beneficial in several other conditions. Metformin is well-tested in vitro and in vivo and an approved compound that targets diverse pathways including mitochondrial energy production and insulin signaling. There is growing evidence for the benefits of metformin to counteract age-related diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative diseases. We will discuss evidence showing that certain neurodegenerative diseases and diabetes are explicitly linked and that metformin along with other diabetes drugs can reduce neurological symptoms in some patients and reduce disease phenotypes in animal and cell models. An interesting therapeutic factor might be how metformin is able to balance survival and death signaling in cells through pathways that are commonly associated with neurodegenerative diseases. In healthy neurons, these overarching signals keep energy metabolism, oxidative stress, and proteostasis in check, avoiding the dysfunction and neuronal death that defines neurodegenerative disease. We will discuss the biological mechanisms involved and the relevance of neuronal vulnerability and potential difficulties for future trials and development of therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Gerrit Machetanz
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Centre of Neurology and Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Julia C Fitzgerald
- German Centre for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Tübingen, Germany
- Department of Neurodegenerative Diseases, Centre of Neurology and Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, University of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
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18
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Campbell JM, Stephenson MD, de Courten B, Chapman I, Bellman SM, Aromataris E. Metformin and Alzheimer's disease, dementia and cognitive impairment: a systematic review protocol. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 15:2055-2059. [PMID: 28800055 DOI: 10.11124/jbisrir-2017-003380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022]
Abstract
REVIEW QUESTION/OBJECTIVE The objective of the review is to assess the effect of metformin on the risk, progression and severity of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia, as well as any measures of cognitive performance or impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared M Campbell
- 1Joanna Briggs Institute, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia 2Monash Centre for Health, Research and Implementation, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia 3Discipline of Medicine, National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia (NHMRC) Centre of Research Excellence in Translating Nutritional Science to Good Health, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
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19
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Alcohol flushing is independently associated with lesser degree of carotid atherosclerosis in Japanese type 2 diabetic patients. Diabetol Int 2017; 9:68-74. [PMID: 30603351 DOI: 10.1007/s13340-017-0332-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2017] [Accepted: 07/20/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a well-known risk factor for atherosclerosis. Intima media thickness (IMT) of the carotid arteries has been widely used for assessing atherosclerotic changes representing cerebro-cardiovascular disease risk. Previous studies have associated the presence of inactive aldehyde dehydrogenase with progression of atherosclerosis and alcohol flushing. However, reports conflict on whether alcohol flushing could potentially modify the degree of atherosclerosis in type 2 diabetic patients. Methods We retrospectively assessed the relationships among alcohol flushing, IMT, and clinical characteristics in 123 consecutive Japanese type 2 diabetic patients. Alcohol flushing was assessed by standardized questionnaires. Results Patients with alcohol flushing had lower mean IMT [0.7 (0.65-0.80) vs. 0.8 (0.73-0.90) mm, p < 0.05], despite having higher triglycerides [132 (94-169) vs. 98 (70-139) mg/dL, p < 0.01] and lower high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [52 (44-60) vs. 59 (49-67) mg/dL, p < 0.05] concentration. Patients with alcohol flushing had lower frequency of alcohol intake (45 vs. 76%, p < 0.0001). Mean IMT was positively associated with age and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol concentration, and negatively with alcohol flushing according to stepwise multiple regression analysis. Alcohol flushing was also independently associated with mean IMT by multivariate analysis. Conclusions These findings suggest that alcohol flushing is independently associated with lesser degree of carotid atherosclerosis in Japanese type 2 diabetic patients.
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20
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Li X, Li J, Li Z, Sang Y, Niu Y, Zhang Q, Ding H, Yin S. Fucoidan from Undaria pinnatifida prevents vascular dysfunction through PI3K/Akt/eNOS-dependent mechanisms in the l-NAME-induced hypertensive rat model. Food Funct 2016; 7:2398-408. [PMID: 27153123 DOI: 10.1039/c6fo00288a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2024]
Abstract
Despite major scientific advances in its prevention, treatment and care, hypertension remains a serious condition that might lead to long-term complications such as heart disease and stroke. The great majority of forms of hypertension eventually result from an increased vasomotor tone activity that is regulated by endothelial NOS (eNOS) in vascular endothelium. Here, we examined the effect of fucoidan on eNOS activation in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). We also examined the effects of functional components of Undaria pinnatifida fucoidan on blood pressure and vascular function in eNOS inhibition-induced hypertensive rats in vivo. Our results suggest that fucoidan increased nitric oxide production by activating eNOS and Akt phosphorylation, which could be impaired by Akt or eNOS inhibitors. In the hypertensive rat model, treatment of fucoidan resulted in potent and persistent reduction of high blood pressure (BP) even after drug withdrawal. Our results showed that the mechanisms might involve protection against vascular structure damage, enhanced endothelium-independent vascular function and inhibition of abnormal proliferation of smooth muscle cells, which are mediated by the Akt-eNOS signaling pathway. Moreover, fucoidan treatment reduced the vascular inflammation and oxidative stress control caused by iNOS expression. Together, these results support a putative role of fucoidan in hypertension prevention and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaofei Li
- Key Laboratory of Combinatorial Biosynthesis and Drug Discovery, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China.
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