Biomedical Letters

Neuroprotection and Acute Ischemic Stroke: The Clinical Quest

Abdoulaye Idriss Ali, Yi Jing Guo*

Department of Neurology, Southeast University affiliated Zhong Da Hospital, No. 87 Dingjiaqiao, Nanjing 210009, Jiangsu Province, China.

Abstract

Stroke is one of the leading causes of disability and mortality affecting millions worldwide with an ever-increasing prevalence in developing countries. The psychological and physical burdens, decreased quality of life and the considerable cost generated, can only emphasis the need for additional, better and more effective management options. The concept of neuroprotection is a mean to achieve better outcome through exploiting the complex pathophysiological changes deriving from stroke, and have been and continue to be the focus of numerous therapeutic strategies. Several compounds targeting various ischemic stroke mechanisms from excitotoxicity, apoptosis, and oxidative stress to inflammation have been explored with the majority yielding disappointing results in clinical phase. Yet, few have proven their worth and others remain promising showing that neuroprotection is still a viable option. In this review, potential targets for neuroprotection and the corresponding targeting treatments are discussed, additionally; a summary of clinically explored compounds, their mechanisms and the outcome is provided.

Keywords: Neuroprotection, stroke, apoptosis, inflammation, excitotoxicity, oxidative stress.

Received July 26, 2016 Revised September 4, 2016 Accepted September 24, 2016

*Correspondence: Yi Jing Guo Email janegyj@aliyun.com Contact: +86 18651657263