Current Neuropharmacology

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Arianna Vignini

Introduction

Bioactive compounds produced by natural sources, such as plants, microbes, endophytic fungi, etc., play a crucial role in the human life, mostly with pharmacological or toxicological effects, against microbial pathogens and diseases, the so-called non communicable diseases (NCDs). Bioactive compounds involve a broad variety of chemical structures and functions. They have received increasing attention due to their numerous health- promoting properties so that they have been using in the production of nutraceuticals, functional foods, and food additives. Nowadays, there is appreciable epidemiologic evidence for the protective role of diets rich in plant- based food, being the Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) an interesting example. The MedDiet with its healthy ingredients rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune, neuroprotective, antidepressant, antistress and senolytic activity plays an essential role in the prevention and management of neurological diseases and inhibits cognitive decline. So, the present Special Issue focuses on the dietary components, natural compounds and medicinal plants that have proven beneficial effects in neurological diseases and for brain health.

Keywords

Dietary supplements; Mediterranean diet; inflammation; oxidative stress; Neurodegenerative diseases; Neurological diseases

Sub-topics

1. Natural antioxidants in AD and MCI
2. mtDNA in neurodegenerative diseases
3. Neurological diseases and ferroptosis
4. Probiotics and memory function
5. Modulation of microbiota in brain disorders
6. The role of antioxidants in Autism
7. Bioactive compounds in neurodegeneration
8. Phytochemicals and brain plasticity

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Zhong Chen

Introduction

Cerebral ischemia, a condition in which there is inadequate blood supply to the brain, ranks as one of the leading causes of disability and mortality globally. Despite its prevalence and severity, efficacious treatment options for this debilitating disorder remain limited. Recent scientific explorations have delved deeply into the pathological mechanisms underlying cerebral ischemia, uncovering the pivotal role of intercellular communication in both ischemic injury and the subsequent regeneration. Intercellular communications during cerebral ischemia occur in various ways, including: (1) direct physical contacts, e.g. those mediated by adhesion molecules, facilitating immediate responses and cellular coordination. (2) Chemical signaling pathways, which involve the release and reception of cytokines, growth factors, and neurotransmitters, orchestrating inflammation, repair, and survival signals. (3) Extracellular vesicle-mediated communication, where microvesicles and exosomes act as sophisticated couriers, ferrying genetic material, proteins, and lipids between cells to modulate immune responses and promote cellular survival or regeneration. (4) Transcellular exchanges through physical channels, such as gap junctions and nanotubes, enabling the rapid dissemination of ions, metabolites, and signaling molecules after stress. Investgatons into these communication pathways may advance our understanding of pathological mechanisms underlying ischemic stroke and pave the way for developing therapeutic strategies that target specific aspects of the ischemic responses.

Keywords

Cerebral ischemia, intercellular communications, neuroprotection, neurovascular unit, exosomes, inflammation, glial cells, neurogenesis.

Sub-topics

The sub-topics to be covered within the issue should be provided:

1. Glia-Neuron Interactions in cerebral ischemia
2. Molecular Insights into Adhesion-Mediated Cell Coordination Post-Ischemic Stroke
3. Chemokines and Cytokines in Neuroinflammation Post-Ischemic Stroke
4. Decoding the Roles of Extracellular Vesicles in Neuroprotection and Regeneration
5. Gap Junctions and Nanotubes: Highways of Metabolic and Signaling Exchange in Ischemic Stress
6. Cutting-Edge Technologies in deciphering Intracellular Communications Post-Ischemic Stroke
7. Targeting Intracellular Communication Pathways for Innovative Therapies in Cerebral Ischemia

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): István BÓKKON
Co-Guest Editor(s): Császár-Nagy NOÉMI

Introduction

The researches of the last two decades indicate that the role of the intestinal system can be fundamental in most diseases. The bidirectional Microbiota - Gut –Brain - Axis (MGBA) includes the central nervous system (CNS), the autonomic nervous system (ANS), the vagus nerve, the neuroendocrine system, neuroimmune systems, the HPA axis, and the gut microbiota and its metabolites. This allows the CNS and the gut system to communicate with each other continuously. The MGBA could contribute to the development of numerous intestinal and extraintestinal diseases, among which are IBS, FM, chronic pain, stroke, lung disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, psoriasis, cancer, celiac disease, metabolic syndrome, and nervous system disorders. In this special issue, we invite manuscript submissions (Reviews, Full-length articles, Research articles Mini Reviews) addressing the pivotal roles of Microbiota - Gut - Brain - Axis in mood and neuropsychiatric disorders. We welcome new ideas and molecular models/mechanisms that are well written and scientifically could be supported. Please, in your possible article, outline your scientific idea/model in a quality figure.

Keywords

Probiotics, Synbiotics, Prebiotics, Fecal microbiota transplantation, Combination of THC and cannabidiol (CBD),Post-biotics (e.g. SCFAs), Bioactive natural products, Cognitive behavioural therapy, Gut- directed hypnotherapy.

Sub-topics

1. Gut serotonin and Microbiota- Gut - Brain Axis
2. Gut dopamine and Microbiota- Gut - Brain Axis
3. SCFAs and Microbiota- Gut - Brain Axis
4. Platelets and Microbiota- Gut - Brain Axis
5. Stress and Microbiota- Gut - Brain Axis

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Vladimir Kosonogov

Introduction

Emotion regulation is a critical aspect of mental well-being and interpersonal relationships. To fully understand and effectively address emotion regulation, an integrative approach that considers pharmacological, neurobiological, and psychological frameworks is essential. Pharmacological interventions, such as medications targeting neurotransmitter imbalances, can play a significant role in managing emotional dysregulation. Understanding how these medications interact with the brain's neurobiological processes is crucial for optimizing treatment outcomes. Additionally, the psychological aspects of emotion regulation, including cognitive-behavioral strategies and mindfulness techniques, are equally important. By integrating these psychological interventions with pharmacological and neurobiological approaches, a more comprehensive and personalized treatment plan can be developed. Studying emotion regulation in an integrative way allows for a holistic understanding of the complexities involved in managing emotions. This approach can lead to more effective interventions and better outcomes for individuals struggling with emotional dysregulation.

Keywords

Emotion dysregulation, neurotransmitters, personalized treatment, neurophysiology, psychotherapeutic practices.

Sub-topics

1. Pharmacological aspects of emotion regulation
2. Neurotransmitters involved in emotion regulation
3. Pharmacological interventions in emotion dysregulation
4. Neurophysiology of emotion regulation
5. Peripheral and metabolic mechanisms of emotion regulation
6. Emotion dysregulation in clinical samples
7. Cutting-Edge Technologies in deciphering Intracellular Communications Post-Ischemic Stroke
8. Psychotherapeutic and educational practices to improve emotion regulation

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Domenico Tricarico

Introduction

Brain tumors are the most common solid tumors affecting children and adolescents, with up to 5,000 children diagnosed per year. Pediatric brain tumors, because of their location, are often untreatable and their clinical management can cause significant long-term impairment to intellectual and neurological function with epilepsy and neurodegeneration. Other than the tyrosine-kinases, novel targets are under investigations such as the mitochondrial protease caseinolytic mitochondrial matrix peptidase proteolytic subunit (ClpP) in the H3K27M diffuse midline gliomas (DIPG). In the last 15 years, a growing body of evidence has underscored the significance of the splicing, dysregulated expression, and altered function of ion channels and aquaporins in several brain tumors. Advances in the multi-functional nano drug delivery systems is also an emerging area of research allowing the administration of combination of chemotherapy drugs, chemotherapy-immunization therapy, chemotherapy-chemo dynamic and chemotherapy-gene combination therapy.

Keywords

Brain tumors, Epilepsy, neurodegeneration, nano drug delivery, chemotherapy, gene combination therapy.

Sub-topics

1. Advances in Brain Cancers
2. Ions and Water Channels in the Neurodegeneration
3. Advances in the multi-functional nano drug delivery systems.

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Celia R. Carlini
Co-Guest Editor(s): Rafael Mariano de Bitencourt

Introduction

The plant Cannabis sativa is widely consumed worldwide mainly for its anxiolytic and euphorigenic properties, with its medicinal use, dating back to 2737 BC. More than 100 phytocannabinoids have been identified in the plant, among which Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol and cannabidiol are the most relevant. Natural and synthetic cannabinoids show promise in managing pain, emesis, cancer-related anorexia/cachexia, and neurological/psychiatric conditions, including spasticity, epilepsy, anxiety, depression, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s diseases. These molecules interact with the endocannabinoid CB1 and CB2 receptors within the central and peripheral nervous system along with organs like gut, liver, and muscles, thereby affecting several metabolic functions. However, the legalization of medicinal and recreational cannabis in some countries has been associated to mental health issues, like depression, psychosis, suicide, cannabis use disorder, cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, among others. Most of the mechanisms underlying the beneficial and adverse effects of cannabis are still unclear. Considering the increase in cannabis legalization worldwide and the risks of mental health issues associated with cannabis use, there is a need to better understand the many "faces" of these versatile molecules. To enlighten the current knowledge in field, this thematic issue brings a collection of reviews focusing the state-of-art on the cannabis and cannabinoids research.

Keywords

Endocannabinoid system; cannabinoids; cannabis; cannabidiol; Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol, phytocannabinoids; neuropsychiatric disorders; pain treatment.

Sub-topics

1. The Endocannabinoid System
2. Phytocannabinoids and interactions with the endocannabinoid system
3. Cannabinoids and neuropsychiatric disorders
4. Cannabinoids and pain treatment
5. New frontiers and future of medicinal cannabinoid

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Bachurin Sergey
Co-Guest Editor(s): Abramov Andrey, Elena Schevtsova

Introduction

The mail goal of this special issue is to analyze current knowledge of interrelation between development of neurodegenerative diseases (ND) and mitochondrial dysfunction, and from the other hand the modern approaches to prevention and treatment of ND by compounds that display mitoprotective activity. The examples of compounds that possess notable mitoprotective activity should be provided and their potential application as disease-modifying agents for the treatment Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and some other ND will be discussed.

Keywords

Neurodegenerative diseases, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease mitochondria, neuroprotection.

Sub-topics

1. Mitochondrial dysfunction as a key step in the development of neurodegenerative diseases
2. Mitochondrial protection in Alzheimer’s disease
3. Mitochondrial protection in Parkinson’s disease
4. Mitochondrial protection in amyotropic lateral sclerosis

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Yulong Lan
Co-Guest Editor(s): Xun Wang, Lalit Basur, Tingzhun Zhu

Introduction

Current research has indicated the critical role of neuroinflammatory as an underlying pathophysiological process in several central nervous system disorders, including neurodegenerative diseases, as well as brain tumors. Glial cells play key roles in neuroinflammation. Recently, it has been found that manipulating glial cell membrane proteins is a challenging but potential approach for therapeutic intervention. Therefore, modulation of membrane proteins activation of glial cells (i.e., microglia and astrocytes) is an effective strategy against inflammatory diseases including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and brain tumors, etc. The membrane protein-mediated signaling pathways are closely linked to these inflammatory diseases via inflammation, therefore it could be a rational treatment strategy. For example, aquaporin 4 and estrogen receptors have been found to influence neuroinflammation via regulating the activation of astrocytes and microglia, thus they could be of great potential to be therapeutic targets in treating neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD). All these highlight the potentials of drugs acting on certain key glial membrane proteins and their downstream protein targets for inhibition of inflammation and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases or brain tumors.

The goal of the present research topic is to clarify the importance of glial membrane proteins in inflammation. This research topic seeks to clarify molecular and cellular characteristics of certain key membrane proteins and their principal functions in glial cells (i.e., microglia and astrocytes), as well as their relationship with inflammation. Importantly, we seek to identify effective modulators of these membrane proteins, which could be important for finding new therapeutic targets of anti-inflammation treatments in different models of various neurodegenerative diseases or brain tumors.

Keywords

Neuroinflammation, Neurodegenerative diseases, Brain tumors, Astrocytes, Anti-inflammation treatments, Drug targets.

Sub-topics

1. Cell lines, organoids, and animal models for studying the role of glial membrane proteins in CNS inflammatory and neoplastic diseases.
2. Molecular and cellular characteristics of membrane proteins as well as their principal functions in glial cells. Research exploring their relationship with inflammation could be especially welcome.
3. Modulators of membrane proteins, which may be therapeutic targets of anti-inflammation treatments, in different models.

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Celia R. Carlini
Co-Guest Editor(s): Cristiane Regina Guerino Furini

Introduction

Memory, a fundamental aspect of cognition, encompasses diverse processes underpinned by intricate neural mechanisms. Our understanding of these processes has evolved significantly, aided by innovative neuropharmacological approaches and advancements in modeling techniques. In this special issue, we aim to synthesize the latest advancements in these intricate processes comprehensively. We invite authors to contribute review articles that critically evaluate recent progress in understanding learning and memory processes, shedding light on the molecular and cellular mechanisms, novel pharmacological targets, and therapeutic strategies to ameliorate memory-related disorders. The review articles should offer a synthesis of existing literature, delineating key findings, identifying gaps in knowledge, and proposing future research directions. We will encourage contributions integrating findings across diverse models, from cellular and animal studies to human research, providing a comprehensive perspective on memory pharmacology.

Keywords

learning, memory, reconsolidation, extinction, consolidation, neural mechanisms, neurophysiology

Sub-topics

1. Neurophysiologic basis of memory formation and retrieval (memory circuits, hippocampus, astrocytes, pericytes, thalamic nuclei, sleep)
2. Physiological modulators of memory (hormones, neurotransmitters, signaling)
3. External conditions affecting memory and pharmacological intervention (stress, emotion,exercise, diet)
4. Pathologies affecting memory and pharmacological intervention (diabetes, stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, COVID-19, post-traumatic stress disorder)

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Luodan Yang
Co-Guest Editor(s): Ruimin Wang, Chongyun Wu

Introduction

This thematic issue will explore the broad spectrum of non-invasive therapies for neurodegenerative diseases and brain injury, including but not limited to photobiomodulation (low-level laser therapy), sound therapy, electrical stimulation, repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), exercise, and other innovative modalities. As the limitations of traditional pharmacological treatments become more apparent, these non-invasive approaches are being recognized for their capacity to modulate neural activity, promote neuroplasticity, and potentially decelerate or reverse the progression of neurodegenerative conditions.

The issue will focus on the underlying cellular and molecular mechanisms of these therapies, examining their effects on neurogenesis, synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammation. In addition, it will highlight recent clinical advancements, assessing the efficacy, safety, and long-term benefits of these therapies in various neurodegenerative diseases and brain injury contexts. By gathering contributions from leading researchers, this issue aims to provide a comprehensive overview of current research, emphasizing the therapeutic potential and future directions of non-invasive approaches in the field of neuropharmacology.

Keywords

Photobiomodulation, Neurogenesis, Neuroplasticity, Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS), Non-invasive Neuromodulation, Neuroinflammation, Brain Injury Rehabilitation, Synaptic Plasticity

Sub-topics

1. The role of photobiomodulation (PBM) in treating neurodegenerative diseases and brain injury
2. Mechanisms of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) in promoting neuroplasticity
3. Comparative analysis of electrical stimulation and sound therapy in neuroprotection
4. The impact of exercise on neurogenesis and cognitive function in neurodegenerative disorders
5. Non-invasive approaches to modulating neuroinflammation in brain injury
6. Safety, efficacy, and long-term benefits of non-invasive therapies in clinical trials
7. Strategies to enhance the therapeutic potential of non-invasive modalities

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Smathorn Thakolwiboon
Co-Guest Editor(s): Pei Shang and Nisa Vorasoot

Introduction

We are excited to invite submission for a special issue dedicated to exploring the intricacies of multiple sclerosis (MS), an inflammatory disease of central nervous system (CNS) causing demyelination and neuronal injury. This issue aims to highlight the recent advancement in the understanding of disease mechanism and therapeutic developments in multiple sclerosis and related disorder. While several FDA-approved disease-modifying therapies effectively reduced relapses and radiologic activity. The understanding in the mechanism and therapeutic application of continuous neurodegeneration remains an unmet need. This special issue seeks to delve into the emerging concepts in the pathophysiology and therapeutic advancements of multiple sclerosis and related disorders such as aging and immunosenescence, the interplay of genetic and environmental factors, compartmentalized inflammation and blood brain barrier, neurodegeneration and re-myelination, etc. Here, we raised this Research Topic, focusing on the molecular mechanisms and state-of-art therapeutic targets of MS and the relationship between MS and neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorders, myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein antibody-associated disease or other autoimmune conditions. In this Research Topic, we welcome all types of articles including Original Research, Review, Mini-Review, Hypothesis and Theory, Perspective, Clinical Tria, and Opinion articles that cover.

Keywords

Autoimmune, demyelination, multiple sclerosis, neuroinflammation, neuropharmacology, oligodendrocyte

Sub-topics

1) Multiple sclerosis across lifespan

2) Immunosenescence and multiple sclerosis and related disorders

3) Genetic and environmental factors in multiple sclerosis and related disorders

4) Emerging concept in pathophysiology and therapeutic targets in multiple sclerosis and related disorders

3) Blood brain barrier and multiple sclerosis and related disorders: mechanism of disease and therapeutic application

3) Neuroregeneration and re-myelination in multiple sclerosis and related disorders

Journal: Current Neuropharmacology
Guest editor(s): Qin-Ge Ma
Co-Guest Editor(s): Rong-Rui Wei, Chun-Su Yuan, Jian-Bo Yang, De-Wu Zhang

Introduction

Neurological disorders is seriously endangering human health in the world. In recent years, the incidence rate of neurological disease is increasing year by year, and the age of patients tends to be younger. Therefore, it is urgent to find safe and effective drugs to treat neurological diseases. The drugs used to treat neurological diseases in clinic are mainly neurological-protecting chemical drugs that can only improve symptoms. Furthermore, these chemical synthetic drugs have some problems, such as high toxicity, high recurrence rate, and high cost. However, natural products from herbal medicines have many advantages, such as multi-channel, multi-target, safety, and so on, which are focused by medical researchers. Therefore, finding safe and effective drugs to treat neurological diseases from natural products of herbal medicines has become a hot topic for medical researchers.

The aim of this Special Issue is to publish high-quality original research and review papers evaluating the potential neuroprotective activities of natural products from herbal medicines for the treatment of neurological diseases. Emerging approaches to find new neuroprotective molecules from herbal medicines and evaluate their efficacy and safety, and approaches to decipher their mechanisms of action and targets are also welcome.

Keywords

neuroprotective activity;natural products; structure elucidation; phytochemical analysis; structure-activity relationship; biosynthesis and metabolism; mechanism and targets.

Sub-topics

1. Natural bioactives and phytochemicals serve in treatment and prevention of neurological diseases.
2. Isolation and structural elucidation of new neuroprotective molecules.
3. Phytochemical analysis of natural products from herbal medicines used as neurological diseases.
4. Efficacy and safety of natural products from herbal medicines used as neurological diseases.
5. Mechanisms and targets of neuroprotective activities of natural products from herbal medicines.
6. Structure-activity relationships of neuroprotective molecules.
7. Biosynthesis and metabolism of neuroprotective molecules.
8. The application of LC-MS in finding neuroprotective natural products.