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Cognitive enhancers, also known as "smart drugs," are substances used to enhance memory, mental alertness, and concentration. These can be natural or synthetic and improve cognition in conditions like Alzheimer's disease (AD) and other neurodegenerative diseases. Some common examples include caffeine, amphetamines, methylphenidate, modafinil, arecoline, donepezil, vortioxetine, and piracetam. These enhancers work on the principle of synaptic plasticity and altered circuit function. They...
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Drugs affecting neurotransmitter synthesis can impact the adrenergic neuron and the synthesis of neurotransmitters. For example, α-methyltyrosine and carbidopa target specific enzymes involved in catecholamine synthesis. α-methyltyrosine inhibits the enzyme tyrosine hydroxylase, which converts tyrosine into dopamine. By blocking this enzyme, α-methyltyrosine reduces dopamine production and other catecholamines. Carbidopa, on the other hand, inhibits the enzyme dopa decarboxylase, which converts...
Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Release or Uptake01:21

Drugs Affecting Neurotransmitter Release or Uptake

Certain drugs can affect how neurotransmitters called catecholamines, are released or taken back up in the adrenergic neuron. They can have different effects on the body's sympathetic transmission. Reserpine, a natural compound found in the Rauwolfia shrub, blocks a transporter called vesicular monoamine transporter (VMAT), which leads to a buildup of catecholamines in the cell and reduces sympathetic transmission. Another drug called guanethidine works in multiple ways, including blocking...
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In the CNS, neurogenesis, the birth of new neurons from stem cells, is limited to the hippocampus in adults. In other regions of the brain and spinal cord, neurogenesis is almost non-existent due to inhibitory influences from neuroglia, especially oligodendrocytes, and the absence of growth-stimulating cues. The myelin produced by oligodendrocytes in the CNS inhibits neuronal regeneration. Furthermore, astrocytes proliferate rapidly after neuronal damage, forming scar tissue that physically...
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Hallucinogens, also known as psychedelic drugs, are a class of substances known for their ability to alter perception, cognition, and emotions. Despite their profound effects on the mind, these drugs are non-addictive, setting them apart from many other abused substances. The mechanism of action of these drugs lies in their impact on the 5-HT2A receptor in the brain. Upon activation, this receptor couples to Gq-type G proteins, triggering a cascade that releases intracellular calcium. This...
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Psychosurgery, the surgical alteration or permanent removal of brain tissue to alleviate severe psychological conditions, stands as one of the most radical and controversial treatments in the history of mental health care. Its development and application have evolved significantly, marked by dramatic shifts in scientific understanding and ethical perspectives.
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Chemogenetic Regulation in Reprogrammed Stem Cell-derived Precursor Cells in Treating Neurodegenerative Diseases
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Neuroenhancing public health.

David Shaw

    Journal of Medical Ethics
    |June 25, 2013
    PubMed
    Summary

    Pharmaceutical cognitive enhancement (CE) could improve public health, especially for disadvantaged groups. However, ethical considerations like autonomy and equitable access require careful examination for neuroenhancing health initiatives.

    Area of Science:

    • Neuroethics
    • Cognitive Enhancement
    • Public Health

    Background:

    • Pharmaceutical cognitive enhancement (CE) is a growing area in neuroethics.
    • Ethical debates have focused on safety, coercion, fairness, and 'cosmetic neurology'.
    • The potential of CE to improve public health, particularly reducing health inequalities, remains underexplored.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To examine the potential of CE for improving health outcomes in populations with pronounced health inequalities.
    • To introduce the concept of 'neuroenhancing health'—using CE to enhance public health.
    • To outline the ethical and philosophical issues associated with neuroenhancing health.

    Main Methods:

    • Literature review and philosophical analysis of cognitive enhancement.
    Keywords:
    EnhancementEpidemiologyHealth Care for Specific Diseases/GroupsNeuroethicsPublic Health Ethics

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  • Examination of ethical concerns including autonomy, free will, and fairness.
  • Exploration of policy implications for targeted versus universal CE coverage.

    • Main Results:

    • CE holds promise for reducing health inequalities but presents significant ethical challenges.
    • Key issues include effectiveness in reducing disparities, impact on autonomy, and moral enhancement as an alternative.
    • The provision of CE, whether targeted or universal, raises complex questions.

    Conclusions:

    • Neuroenhancing health offers a novel approach to public health improvement.
    • Addressing ethical dilemmas concerning autonomy, equity, and access is crucial.
    • Further research is needed to navigate the complexities of implementing CE for public health benefits.