Turmeric: a new hope for SMA patients
Curcumin, a molecule extracted from turmeric, could open new perspectives in the treatment of SMA
Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is a rare genetic disorder affecting motor neurons, the nerve cells that control muscle movement. This condition, often diagnosed in the early years of life, causes progressive muscle weakness and, in severe cases, can lead to serious disability and even death.
Turmeric: an unexpected ally
A recent study, conducted by a team of researchers from the Universities of Milan and Pavia and published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, has opened new perspectives in the treatment of SMA. At the heart of this research is curcumin, a natural molecule extracted from turmeric, known for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
How does curcumin work?
Scientists have found that in the cells of patients with SMA there is a high level of oxidative stress, an imbalance that damages the cells and contributes to the progression of the disease. Curcumin, thanks to its ability to neutralize free radicals, seems to be able to counteract this phenomenon, protecting cells and improving their functionality.
But how exactly does curcumin exert its beneficial effects? The researchers observed that this molecule is able to activate a protein, called Nrf2, which plays a key role in the cells’ defence against oxidative stress. The activation of Nrf2 stimulates the production of a number of protective proteins, including the Smn protein, whose deficiency is at the root of SMA.
Promising results and future prospects
Laboratory experiments on SMA cell models have shown very promising results. Curcumin has succeeded in improving cell survival and stimulating the production of the Smn protein, thus offering new hope for patients suffering from this disease.
However, it is important to stress that these are preliminary in vitro results. Further studies, both in animal models and in humans, will be needed to confirm the efficacy of curcumin in the treatment of SMA and to determine the optimal dose and duration of treatment.
An integrated approach to therapy
Curcumin, due to its natural safety and ability to modulate different biological processes, could be an interesting therapeutic option for patients with SMA. However, it is important to stress that this is not a miracle cure but rather an integrated approach which could improve patients’ quality of life and slow down the progression of the disease.
Future challenges and prospects
Despite the encouraging results, there are still many challenges to be faced. One of the main reasons is the low bioavailability of curcumin, that is to say the difficulty of this molecule to reach the target cells in sufficient quantities. To overcome this limit, researchers are studying new curcumin formulations, such as liposomes, which increase its bioavailability.
It is also important to better understand the molecular mechanisms through which curcumin acts and identify biomarkers that can predict treatment response. This will help to personalise therapies and improve their effectiveness.