Objective:To observe the effects of curcumin on cognitive function of APPswe/ PS1 d E9 double transgenic mice and the expression of α-synuclein and MAP2 in hippocampus

and to explore the potential mechanisms. Methods:The 3-month-old APPswe/PS1 d E9 double transgenic mice were randomly divided into untreated group(n=10)

curcumin low-dose group(n=10)and curcumin high dose group(n=10). Normal diet

diet mixed with 160 mg/kg curcumin and diet mixed with 1 000 mg/kg curcumin were given

respectively. The Morris water maze test was used to detect the effects of curcumin on spatial learning and memory of AD mice. IHC was carried out to evaluate the expression of α-synuclein and microtubule associated protein-2(MAP2)in hippocampus. Results:Morris water maze test showed that curcumin could improve learning and memory of AD mice. IHC results showed that compared with those of untreated group

the expressions of α-synuclein in the hippocampus were significantly reduced in low and high dose of curcumin group;however

the expressions of MAP2 were significantly increased in curcumin treatment group in a dose-dependent manner(P<0.05). Conclusion:Curcumin could play a role in improving cognition and memory ability of AD transgenic mice via upregulating the expression of MAP2 and down-regulating α-synuclein.