| خلاصه مقاله | : Oxidative stress is a major contributor to neural cell death in neurodegenerative
diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
(ALS). This review explores the mechanisms by which oxidative stress drives neuronal loss
and discusses potential therapeutic strategies aimed at mitigating its harmful effects. Oxidative
stress occurs when there is an imbalance between the production of reactive oxygen species
(ROS) and the body's ability to detoxify them through antioxidant defenses. Neurons, due to
their high metabolic activity and limited capacity for regeneration, are particularly vulnerable
to ROS-induced damage. Mitochondria, the primary source of ROS, play a crucial role in this
process. Mitochondrial dysfunction not only increases ROS production but also exacerbates
oxidative damage to cellular components, such as lipids, proteins, and DNA. This damage
disrupts cellular integrity and activates apoptotic and necrotic pathways, leading to progressive
neuronal death and contributing to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. The body’s
natural antioxidant systems, including enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD) and
glutathione peroxidase (GPx), are designed to neutralize ROS and protect cells from oxidative
damage. However, in the context of neurodegenerative diseases, these systems are often
overwhelmed, allowing oxidative stress to accumulate and promote neural cell death. Given
the central role of oxidative stress in neural degeneration, therapeutic approaches targeting this
process have gained attention. Antioxidants, such as vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, and Nacetylcysteine (NAC), have been investigated for their potential to reduce ROS levels and
protect neurons. Additionally, emerging therapies aimed at preserving mitochondrial function
are showing promise in reducing oxidative stress. Advances in nanotechnology have further
opened new avenues for targeted antioxidant delivery. Nanoparticle-based systems capable of
crossing the blood-brain barrier are being developed to enhance the precision of antioxidant
treatments, offering more effective protection against neural cell death. In conclusion,
oxidative stress is a key factor in neural cell death and neurodegenerative disease progression.
Therapeutic strategies targeting oxidative damage, including antioxidants and mitochondrial
protection, hold promise for slowing or preventing neuronal loss and improving patient
outcomes. |