Neuropharmacology and Neurochemistry

Neuropharmacology of Neurodegenerative Disorders

The neuropharmacology of neurodegenerative disorders explores the biochemical and pharmacological strategies used to understand and treat progressive neurological diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. It investigates how disruptions in neurotransmitter systems, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and protein misfolding contribute to neuronal death and cognitive decline. By understanding these underlying mechanisms, scientists can design therapies that protect neurons, slow disease progression, and enhance brain repair. Current therapeutic approaches include dopamine agonists, cholinesterase inhibitors, and glutamate receptor modulators, along with experimental treatments that target amyloid plaques, tau protein aggregation, and neuroinflammatory responses. The exploration of neurotrophic factors and neuroprotective molecules has also opened new avenues for regenerative medicine. Advancements in gene therapy, stem cell biology, and personalized pharmacology are transforming how neurodegenerative conditions are treated, aiming to provide precision-based interventions. The integration of neurochemical and pharmacological knowledge offers hope for identifying biomarkers that predict disease onset and for developing drugs that not only alleviate symptoms but also modify disease progression, improving the quality of life for patients worldwide.