Discovery and Development of Neuroprotective Agents from Natural Products

Book excerpt: Discovery and Development of Neuroprotective Agents from Natural Products draws together global research on medicinal agents from natural sources as starting points for the design of neuroprotective drugs. From the prediction of promising leads and identification of active agents to the extraction of complex molecules, the book explores a range of important topics to support the development of safer, more economical therapeutics for these increasingly prevalent diseases. Beginning with an overview of current developments in the field, the book goes on to explore the identification, extraction and phytochemistry of such neuroprotective agents as antioxidants, biophenols and naturally occurring anti-inflammatory steroid analogues. Specific natural sources of bioactive agents are reviewed, and the development of these agents into therapeutics for a number of specific neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and ischemic brain stroke, are discussed. Combining the expertise of specialists from around the world, this in the Natural Products Drug Discovery series aims to support and encourage researchers in the investigation of natural sources as starting points for the development of standardized, safe and effective neuroprotective drugs. - Features chapters written by active researchers and leading global experts deeply engaged in the research field of natural product chemistry for drug discovery - Includes comprehensive coverage of cutting-edge research advances in the design of drugs from natural products targeted at different kinds of neurodegenerative diseases - Offers a practical review of identification, isolation and extraction techniques to support medicinal chemists in the lab