LINCS Dataset-Based Repositioning of Dutasteride as an Anti-Neuroinflammation Agent

The study investigated the repositioning of dutasteride, a 5-α-reductase inhibitor, as a potential treatment for neuroinflammation using the LINCS dataset. Dutasteride was identified as a top candidate for its ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier and was shown to significantly reduce inflammatory markers IL-6 and TNF-α in LPS-stimulated BV2 cells. In vivo experiments in mice demonstrated that dutasteride decreased IL-6 levels in the hippocampus and plasma, reduced microglia activation, and improved cognitive impairments. These findings suggested that dutasteride could be a promising therapeutic option for neuroinflammation-related diseases, offering an alternative to traditional NSAIDs. Further research was recommended to explore the mechanisms of its effects.