Indian Scientists Investigate microRNA-Based Breakthrough in Alzheimer’s Cure

New Delhi – Indian scientists may be on the brink of a major breakthrough in the fight against Alzheimer’s Disease, as researchers from the Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) explore the therapeutic potential of microRNAs (miRNAs) — molecules that won the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine last year.

Alzheimer’s Disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition marked by protein deposits in the brain, memory loss, and cognitive decline. It currently affects over 57.4 million people globally — a number expected to surge to 152.8 million by 2050.

In an effort to find a more effective solution, scientists at JNCASR — an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology (DST) — studied altered miRNAs in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients to improve early, precise, and specific diagnosis.

Their findings, published in the journal NAR Molecular Medicine, revealed multiple miRNA-mRNA networks disrupted in Alzheimer’s, offering promising new drug development targets. The research team, led by Madhu Ramesh and Prof. Thimmaiah Govindaraju, used a double transgenic AD mouse model to identify novel miRNAs implicated in disease progression.

A key discovery was the elevated presence of miR-7a, a microRNA that targets Klf4 — a master gene regulator involved in Alzheimer's. The study found that the miR-7a-Klf4 axis plays a critical role in controlling neuroinflammation and ferroptosis (a form of iron-induced cell death), both of which are central to Alzheimer’s pathology.

“Our research uncovers how miR-7a influences Alzheimer’s progression by targeting Klf4, which in turn regulates both neuroinflammation and ferroptosis,” said Prof. Govindaraju.

To build on these findings, the team developed a miRNA-based therapy designed to suppress Klf4. They created a modified miR-7a mimic that effectively reduced Klf4 levels and improved disease symptoms in the mouse model. In parallel, they tested Honokiol, a natural compound derived from the bark and seed cones of the Magnolia tree, known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Honokiol was found to successfully modulate the miR-7a-Klf4 axis, halting neuroinflammation and cell death.

These results position the miR-7a-Klf4 axis as a promising new target for Alzheimer’s therapy.

“With further clinical trials, the miRNA mimic and Honokiol — if proven safe and effective — could offer a potential cure for Alzheimer’s, providing significant relief for both patients and caregivers,” the team concluded.

With inputs from IANS