The Effects of Curcumin on Neurodegenerative Diseases: a Systematic Review

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) such as multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer’s disease comprise a group of conditions that cause neural cell dysfunction and can lead to cell death. These conditions are incurable, and the patient can lose motor, cognitive, and physiological abilities. Currently, therapeutic strategies are to prevent disease progression and treat symptoms. Curcuma longa has been considered in the therapeutic approach to ND due to its relevant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to these reasons, this study aimed to perform a systematic review of the effects of C longa on ND. The databases consulted were PubMed, EMBASE, and Cochrane. Preferred Reporting Items for a Systematic Review and Meta-analysis guidelines were followed. Using curcumin restored aberrant miRNA expressions, increased the circulation of Treg lymphocytes, increased serum levels of TGF-B and IL-10, and decreased the disability score in patients with multiple sclerosis. In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, curcumin increased the expression of inflammatory response miRNA modulators and maintained the antioxidant capacity. Adding curcumin to traditional drug therapy appears promising and safe for treating ND. More clinical trials with C longa and its derivatives are necessary to evaluate the adequate doses, administration route, and intervention time to improve or prevent the evolution of neurodegenerative conditions. •Curcumin decreases the aberrant micro-RNA and disability scores in multiple sclerosis.•Curcumin increases interleukin-10 in multiple sclerosis.•In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, curcumin increases the expression of miRNA modulators of the inflammation.•Curcumin appears promising and safe for treating neurodegenerative diseases.