Impact of Nano-Formulations of Natural Compounds in the Management of Neuro degenerative Diseases

Neurodegenerative disorders (NDs), such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Huntington’s disease (HD), are caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, and proteinopathy. These are further characterized by loss of neurons and, consequently, impaired cognitive functions. However, the exact mechanisms of the pathogenesis of these diseases are still unknown. Nowadays, natural compounds like curcumin, quercetin, resveratrol, and piperine, among others, have been explored for the treatment and prevention of neurological disorders. There are various in vivo studies and clinical trials conducted for alleviating neurological disorders using natural compounds encapsulated in nanocarrier systems. Nanoparticles such as lipidic, polymeric, quantum dots help to enhance the bioavailability, specificity, and targeted delivery of these compounds in the brain. Various simple and reproducible methods are reported to synthesize the nanoparticles in the literature. In this chapter, we will explore the role of nanotechnology and natural compounds to treat and prevent neurodegenerative disorders.

Keywords: Nanotechnology, Nanoparticles, Natural compounds, Neurodegenerative disorders, Targeted delivery