Neurodegeneration by oxidative stress: a review on prospective use of small molecules for neuroprotection

The intricate physiology of many Central Nervous System (CNS) disorders points towards oxidative damages of neurons. Various studies have established that oxidative stress is a big threat to integrity of neurons. All the sections of central nervous system are exposed to free radicals and charged species formed during oxidative degradation of catecholamines and polyunsaturated fatty acids which are present abundantly in CNS. By products of other biochemical reactions also contribute to oxidative stress in central nervous system. If these charged species are not counter neutralized by antioxidants, it leads to neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Amyotropic lateral sclerosis, Multiple sclerosis, Spinal cord injury, Schizophrenia etc. The level of charged species and free radicals is found to be higher in neurodegenerative diseases than normal physiological condition and it is related to oxidative damages to neuronal cells. In many of such cases, use of antioxidants decreases oxidative stress and contribute to neuroprotection. This review intends to compile approach of managing oxidative stress in various neurodegenerative disorders. The perspective of this review is to study antioxidants and their role in neuroprotection.