Abstract Details

Title Assessing the Potential of Thymol in Treating Alzheimer's Disease: A Systematic Review

Topic Aging, Dementia, and Behavioral Neurology

Presentation(s) P3 - Poster Session 3 (5:00 PM-6:00 PM)

Poster/Presentation
Number 13-013

Objective To systematically synthesize preclinical evidence on the effects of thymol (and thymol-rich preparations) on cognition and Alzheimer’s disease–related pathophysiology in animal and neuronal cell models, and to evaluate underlying mechanisms by which thymol exerts these effects.

Background Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involves progressive cognitive decline driven by amyloid-β accumulation causing oxidative stress, synaptic dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. Thymol, a bioactive monoterpenoid phenol derived from thyme species, has demonstrated neuroprotective properties in experimental studies. However, evidence on its efficacy across preclinical AD models has not been systematically synthesized.

Design/Methods We conducted a systematic search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science in accordance with PRISMA guidlines for controlled in vivo and in vitro studies evaluating thymol in Alzheimer’s-relevant models. Reviewers independently screened abstracts and full texts using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria; after screening, nine studies met eligibility. Data were extracted into a pre-specified table recording study design, sample size, intervention details, outcomes, and key results. Risk of bias was evaluated using SYRCLE criteria, with independent scoring and consensus-based resolution of disagreements.

Results Out of the nine included studies, two were in vivo and seven were in vitro. Animal experiments administered thymol at 0.5–80 mg/kg and assessed cognition using the Morris water maze, Passive avoidance, Radial arm maze, and Novel object recognition tests; thymol consistently improved spatial learning, memory retention, and behavioral performance. Mechanistic data indicated reduced oxidative stress and Aβ-induced neurotoxicity, preservation of synaptic plasticity, increased acetylcholine availability, and modulation of PKC and MAPK/Nrf2 signaling. In vitro studies corroborated these effects, showing increased cell viability, decreased ROS production, and restored cholinergic function.

Conclusions Thymol demonstrates consistent neuroprotective and cognition-enhancing effects across preclinical AD models, acting through multiple mechanisms relevant to AD pathogenesis. These findings support thymol as a promising therapeutic candidate; however, clinical trials are required to determine its applicability in humans.

Authors/Disclosures
Muhammad Waleed Imran, MBBS PRESENTER	Mr. Imran has nothing to disclose.
Sanwal Sardar Nawaz, MBBS	Mr. Nawaz has nothing to disclose.
Saara Ahmad Muddasir Khan, PhD	Dr. Khan has nothing to disclose.

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