Neuroprotective agents in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases: Current advances and future perspectives

Abstract

Neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and Parkinson’s disease (PD) are progressive brain disorders characterized by neuronal loss, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation. Current pharmacological treatments mainly offer symptomatic relief without halting disease progression. Therefore, identifying and developing neuroprotective agents that can prevent or slow neuronal degeneration has become a key research focus. Various classes of neuroprotective compounds including synthetic drugs, natural phytochemicals, and novel nanocarrier-based formulations have shown promising results in preclinical and clinical studies. Agents such as memantine, selegiline, curcumin, resveratrol, and Ginkgo biloba extract exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic effects that protect neurons from degeneration. Recent advancements in nanotechnology and gene therapy have further enhanced drug delivery across the blood-brain barrier, improving therapeutic efficacy. This review highlights the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying AD and PD, the mechanisms of neuroprotection, and the current progress of neuroprotective agents under investigation. The development of multitargeted and personalized neuroprotective therapies holds significant promise for the effective management of neurodegenerative diseases in the future.