Friday, March 29, 2013

Curcumin Shows Potential for Parkinson’s Disease

By Drew Hancherick

Curcumin, found in the Indian spice turmeric, is an antioxidant traditionally used to promote stomach and joint comfort. Because it can cross the blood-brain barrier, its benefits for neurological functioning and brain health are under investigation. According to recent research, curcumin shows promise in reducing factors that contribute to the onset of Parkinson’s disease.

In a new study, researchers from Michigan State University found that curcumin prevents the protein alpha-synuclein from clumping, instead forcing it to scatter. The aggregation of these proteins is considered to be one of the initial signs of the progression of Parkinson’s and other diseases. “Our research shows that curumin can rescue proteins from aggregation, the first steps of many debilitating diseases. More specifically, curcumin binds strongly to alpha-synuclein and prevents aggregation at body temperatures,” wrote Professor Lisa Lapidus, co-author of the study published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry. Not only does curcumin stop the protein from clumping, but it also facilitates its folding and reconfiguration – a process that helps it avoid clumping with other proteins.

Antioxidants are among the most researched ingredients on the health and nutrition marketplace today. Supplements containing curcumin are known for their joint and stomach health benefits, as well as their potential for brain and mental health functions. Adding curcumin to a healthy diet looks like a smart choice for both mind and body.

Curcumin Reduces Risk of Parkinson’s Onset

by Chake Faye

In recent years researchers have begun to explore the positive benefits of the compound curcumin, usually found in the spice turmeric. Researchers have found that curcumin as a supplement can be effective in preventing or reducing the risk of certain illnesses and diseases.

New research has revealed that curcumin could prevent the onset of Parkinson’s disease in patients. In a study, led by Lisa J. Lapidus, sponsored by the National Science Foundation Grant, observation revealed that curcumin prevents the aggregation (clumping) of proteins by forcing them to scatter away from each other.

The “clumping” that these bodily proteins perform is infamous as being one of the first signs of Parkinson’s disease. Needless to say, curcumin is now being looked at as a possible preventative measure for certain illnesses.

“Our research shows that curcumin can rescue proteins from aggregation, the first steps of many debilitating diseases. More specifically, curcumin binds strongly to alpha-synuclein and prevents [protein clumping] at body temperatures.”

Curcumin has already been linked to several benefits such as preventing the growth of breast cancer, reducing risk of childhood leukemia and also as a natural remedy for depression.



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