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Adult-onset brain tumors and neurodegeneration: Are polyphenols protective?
Tiziana Squillaro1, Carla Schettino1, Simone Sampaolo1
1Department of Medical, Surgical, Neurological, Metabolic Sciences, and Aging, 2nd Division of Neurology, Center for Rare Diseases and InterUniversity Center for Research in Neurosciences, University of Campania "Luigi Vanvitelli", Naples, Italy.
Abstract:
Aging is a primary risk factor for both neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) and tumors such as adult-onset brain tumors. Since NDs and tumors are severe, disabling, progressive and often incurable conditions, they represent a pressing problem in terms of human suffering and economic costs to the healthcare systems. The current challenge for physicians and researchers is to develop new therapeutic strategies in both areas to improve the patients' quality of life. In addition to genetics and environmental stressors, the increase in cellular oxidative stress as one of the potential common etiologies has been reported for both disorders. Recently, the scientific community has focused on the beneficial effects of dietary antioxidant classes, known as nutraceuticals, such as carotenoids, vitamins, and polyphenols. Among these compounds, polyphenols are considered to be one of the most bioactive agents in neurodegeneration and tumor prevention. Despite the beneficial activity of polyphenols, their poor bioavailability and inefficient delivery systems are the main factors limiting their use in medicine and functional food. The development of polymeric nanoparticle-based delivery systems able to encapsulate and preserve polyphenolic compounds may represent a promising tool to enhance their stability, solubility, and cell membrane permeation. In the present review we provide an overview of the main polyphenolic compounds used for ND and brain tumor prevention and treatment that explores their mechanisms of action, recent clinical findings and principal factors limiting their application in medicine.
Insights
Aging increases risk for neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) and brain tumors. Polyphenols show promise for prevention and treatment, but poor bioavailability limits their use. Nanoparticle delivery systems could enhance polyphenol efficacy for these conditions.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Neuroscience
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Aging is a significant risk factor for neurodegenerative disorders (NDs) and adult-onset brain tumors.
- Both NDs and tumors present substantial challenges due to their severity, progressive nature, and high economic burden.
- Cellular oxidative stress is a potential common etiological factor in aging-related NDs and tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of polyphenols in preventing and treating neurodegenerative disorders and brain tumors.
- To explore the mechanisms of action, clinical findings, and limitations of polyphenol application.
- To highlight nanoparticle-based delivery systems as a strategy to overcome polyphenol bioavailability issues.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on polyphenols, neurodegeneration, and brain tumors.
- Analysis of research on nutraceuticals, particularly polyphenols, as therapeutic agents.
- Examination of nanoparticle delivery systems for enhancing polyphenol stability and efficacy.
Main Results:
- Polyphenols demonstrate significant bioactive potential in neuroprotection and tumor prevention.
- Poor bioavailability and inefficient delivery systems are primary limitations for clinical polyphenol use.
- Polymeric nanoparticles offer a promising solution for improving polyphenol stability, solubility, and cellular uptake.
Conclusions:
- Polyphenols are promising nutraceuticals for combating age-related neurodegenerative disorders and brain tumors.
- Overcoming bioavailability challenges through advanced delivery systems like nanoparticles is crucial for therapeutic success.
- Further research into polyphenol mechanisms and nanoparticle formulations is warranted to improve patient outcomes.
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