The Role of Minocycline in Alzheimer’s Disease: Acetylcholinesterase Inhibition and Neuroprotective Mechanisms

Abstract

Minocycline, a semisynthetic tetracycline antibiotic, has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic effects on Alzheimer’s disease (AD). It has been extensively studied for its potential neuroprotective effects beyond its antimicrobial properties. This review explores the pharmacological mechanisms, therapeutic applications, and clinical trials of minocycline, with a particular focus on its role in neurodegenerative diseases such as AD. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE) is the enzyme responsible for the breakdown of acetylcholine in the synaptic cleft, and its inhibition is a key therapeutic target in AD treatment. By inhibiting AChE, minocycline increases acetylcholine levels in the brain, which may improve cognitive function and mitigate neurodegenerative processes. The study concluded that minocycline is a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of AD. As this condition is affecting more people worldwide, minocycline could lead to effective and timely treatment for people suffering from this disease.