engleski

Cholinesterase-inhibitory activity of essential oils

Essential oils (EOs) are a complex mixtures containing volatile secondary metabolites with various structures (terpenes, terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, and others). Their roles in plants vary from attracting pollinators to a defense against insects, food storage, and adaptations to harsh climate. Since ancient times, EOs are recognized for their medicinal value, representing a valuable source of biologically active compounds. EOs possess various activities including: antimicrobial, antiviral, antioxidant, antitumor, etc. They have also been used as perfumes, flavors for foods and beverages, remedies for the body and mind, and continue to be of paramount importance to date. Having a small molecular weight and lipid solubility, EO constituents possess the ability to pass the blood-brain barrier. Given the complexity of their chemical composition and ability to enter the brain, EOs and their constituents offer a promising strategy for the treatment of various neurological disorders. Alzheimer's disease has been responsible for more than 50% of neurological diseases among persons over the age of 65 years. EOs are found to be potential acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase inhibitors, two enzymes which still represent the only pharmacoterapeutic targets against Alzheimer's disease. The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the current knowledge about the activity of the EOs with defined chemical composition, tested against cholinesterases and to identify the ones that could be potentially used in Alzheimer's treatment.

essential oils, terpenes, terpenoids, phenylpropanoids, acetylcholinesterase, butyrylcholinesterase

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