Neuroprotective Effect of Food and Natural Bioactive Compounds

Dear Colleagues,

The neurodegenerative diseases are becoming more relevant in our society. They are different in their pathophysiology and partly determined by the extension of the lifespan.

At present, although there is an increase in research activity on this topic, an effective neuroprotective treatment is still absent. Epidemiological and biochemical studies highlight a significant neuroprotective role of nutrition and natural bioactive compounds suggesting them as potential therapeutic agents.

Indeed, studies suggest that some natural bioactive components, such as polyphenols, terpenes, vitamins, peptides, carbohydrates, can positively prevent, delay, or mitigate the neurodegenerative disorders.

Nevertheless, the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying these effects are not yet completely understood. Neuroprotection, by nutrition/bioactive compounds, has been proposed to prevent the onset and progress of diseases by targeting oxidative stress, neurotrophic factor reduction, mitochondrial deficit, apoptosis process and abnormal protein accumulation.

In order to design effective therapies, it is fundamental to conduct studies aimed to increase understanding on the bioavailability and pharmacokinetic properties of bioactive compounds.

In this regard, it should be considered that the bioactivity of natural compounds is influenced by metabolic transformations. Also, a dependence on the food matrix as well as on the physiology/anatomy of the consumer, and the type of compound, was highlighted in the assessment of the bioavailability of the bioactive compounds.

Therefore, therapeutic strategies should be assess to develop new delivery systems in order to improve systemic bioavailability and brain penetrance.

This Special Issue of the Molecules, will include a selection of original articles and reviews aimed to expanding our knowledge on the neuroprotective effects of food/natural compounds, concerning several aspects on different neurodegenerative models.

Prof. Antonia Patruno
Dr. Mirko Pesce
Guest Editors

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