Perspectives for the use of the antidiabetic drug metformin as a strategy to slow biological aging and age-related diseases

Abstract

This review focuses on the use of the antidiabetic drug metformin as one of the most studied geroprotective candidates with a well-established safety profile. The primary theories of aging and the development of age-related diseases, such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and Alzheimer disease, as well as the relationship between T2DM and the development of cognitive impairment, are reviewed. Metformin is hypothesized to improve cognitive function, mitigate the severity of anxiety, and reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer disease. In addition, metformin is able to decelerate the aging process and increase longevity in experiments in mice and rats. Despite being among the most frequently prescribed medications globally, with the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier and distribute to all brain regions, the precise mechanisms underlying its effects on the brain remain unclear. Studies show that metformin is able to activate 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase, reduce the levels of advanced glycation endproducts, and restore mitochondrial function. Moreover, metformin enhances autophagy and exerts a neuroprotective effect on neural stem cells. The findings of numerous studies indicate that metformin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Keywords

metformin / aging / type 2 diabetes mellitus / geroprotective agents / Alzheimer disease

Funding

Russian Science FoundationРоссийский Научный Фонд(23-25-00333)

RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

Eco-Vector