Unlocking therapeutic potential of trigonelline through molecular docking as a promising approach for treating diverse neurological disorders

Metab Brain Dis. 2023 Dec;38(8):2721-2733. doi: 10.1007/s11011-023-01304-5. Epub 2023 Oct 18.

Abstract

Neurological disorders pose significant challenges in terms of treatment options, necessitating the exploration of novel therapeutic approaches. Trigonelline, a naturally occurring alkaloid found in various plants, has emerged as a potential treatment option. It has also been reported that trigonelline is involved in several pathways like; Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant, Inflammatory, Neuroprotection and Neurotrophic, Mitochondrial Function and Energy Metabolism. This study aims to investigate the therapeutic potential of trigonelline for diverse neurological disorders using a molecular docking approach. Molecular docking simulations were performed to predict the binding affinity and interaction between trigonelline and target proteins implicated in neurological disorders. The structural requirements for effective binding were also explored. The molecular docking results revealed strong binding interactions and favorable binding affinities between trigonelline and the target proteins involved in diverse neurological disorders like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and depression etc. The predicted binding modes provided insights into the key molecular interactions governing the ligand-protein complexes. The findings suggest that trigonelline holds promise as a therapeutic approach for several neurological disorders. The molecular docking approach employed in this study provides a valuable tool for rational drug design and optimization of trigonelline-based compounds. Further experimental validation and preclinical studies are warranted to confirm the efficacy and safety of trigonelline as a potential treatment option, paving the way for the development of more effective and targeted therapies for neurological disorders.

Keywords: Molecular docking; Neurological disorders; Rational drug design; Therapeutic potential; Trigonelline.

MeSH terms

  • Alkaloids* / pharmacology
  • Alkaloids* / therapeutic use
  • Alzheimer Disease* / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Molecular Docking Simulation
  • Nervous System Diseases* / drug therapy

Substances

  • trigonelline
  • Alkaloids