What are the Cellular Mechanisms of Neuroprotection?
Several cellular mechanisms contribute to neuroprotection:
1. Antioxidant Defense: Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can cause oxidative stress, leading to neuronal damage. Antioxidants such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase play a crucial role in neutralizing ROS and protecting cells from oxidative damage.
2. Anti-apoptotic Pathways: Apoptosis, or programmed cell death, can be triggered by various factors, including DNA damage and mitochondrial dysfunction. Proteins like Bcl-2 help prevent apoptosis by stabilizing mitochondrial membranes and inhibiting pro-apoptotic factors.
3. Inflammation Modulation: Chronic inflammation can exacerbate neuronal damage. Anti-inflammatory cytokines and drugs can help modulate the immune response and reduce inflammation in the nervous system.
4. Neurotrophic Factors: These are proteins that support the growth, survival, and differentiation of neurons. Examples include brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and nerve growth factor (NGF), which play a vital role in neuroprotection.
