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Putative neuroprotective agents in neuropsychiatric disorders
Seetal Dodd1, Michael Maes, George Anderson
1School of Medicine, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia; Department of Psychiatry, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia. seetald@barwonhealth.org.au
Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry
|November 27, 2012
Summary
Neuropsychiatric disorders like depression and schizophrenia show progressive brain changes. This review explores agents like lithium and N-acetylcysteine that may offer neuroprotection by targeting these disease pathways.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Major neuropsychiatric disorders (depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia) often exhibit neuroprogressive characteristics.
- Neuroprogression involves structural brain changes, cognitive decline, and reduced treatment efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review potential neuroprotective agents for mood disorders and schizophrenia.
- To explore agents targeting molecular mechanisms of neuroprogression.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on neuroprogression in psychiatric disorders.
- Identification and evaluation of agents with potential neuroprotective properties.
- Analysis of agents acting on pathways like neurotrophins, neurotransmitters, and inflammation.
Main Results:
- Neuroprogression is linked to molecular mechanisms including neurotrophins, neurotransmitters, inflammation, oxidative stress, and epigenetic factors.
- Several agents, including lithium, aspirin, minocycline, statins, N-acetylcysteine, leptin, and melatonin, show promise.
- These agents may act on multiple pathways to offer neuroprotection.
Conclusions:
- Targeting specific molecular pathways involved in neuroprogression may yield effective neuroprotective strategies.
- Investigating agents like lithium, N-acetylcysteine, and others could lead to novel treatments for schizophrenia and mood disorders.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the neuroprotective potential of these agents in clinical settings.
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