Nutraceutical interventions for neuroprotection: a comprehensive review

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Nutritional Science
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Nutraceuticals, bioactive food compounds, are investigated for neuroprotection via gut health modulation.
• They influence the gut-brain axis, a key communication network between gut microbiota and the central nervous system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the holistic action of nutraceuticals compared to single-molecule therapeutics for neuroprotection.
• To explore nutraceuticals' potential in mitigating neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.
• To identify challenges and future research directions for nutraceuticals in neuroprotection.

Main Methods:

• Literature review comparing nutraceuticals and single-molecule agents.
• Analysis of nutraceutical mechanisms influencing the gut-brain axis.
• Examination of effects on neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction.

Main Results:

• Nutraceuticals (probiotics, prebiotics, polyphenols, omega-3s, vitamins) beneficially alter microbiota, reduce inflammation, and strengthen gut barrier.
• These gut changes impact brain function via neurotransmitter activity and immune responses.
• Nutraceuticals may mitigate neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and mitochondrial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases.

Conclusions:

• Nutraceuticals present a promising, multi-targeted strategy for neuroprotection through gut-brain axis modulation.
• Challenges include standardization, bioavailability, dosage, and safety, necessitating further clinical validation.
• Nutraceuticals could serve as complementary or alternative strategies to conventional neuroprotective agents.