Natural Steroids and Androgen Antagonists used as Neuroprotection in Common Neurological Disorders

CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets. 2017;16(7):763-771. doi: 10.2174/1871527316666170714121654.

Abstract

Background & objective: Multiple classes of natural products, such as antiandrogens or steroids have been used as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory treatments in neurodegenerative diseases. This paper aims to review current knowledge on these substances and their possible relationship with free radicals as an alternative therapy and prevention of common neurological disorders. An exhaustive review of the neurochemical mechanisms of these substances in the central nervous system of humans and animal models is yet to be undertaken in the literature, particularly regarding their importance and increasing use.

Conclusion: Androgen receptor antagonists act in a different way that may underlie the benefits of natural products, with the expectation that in adults, neurological disorders would respond to natural antiandrogens. We hope that this work would provide valuable insight into the protective and therapeutic roles for natural antiandrogens and steroids in common neurological disorders.

Keywords: Androgens; CNS; antagonist; neurological disorders; neuroprotectors; steroids.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Androgen Antagonists / pharmacology
  • Androgen Antagonists / therapeutic use*
  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Nervous System Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Neuroprotection / drug effects*
  • Neuroprotective Agents / pharmacology
  • Neuroprotective Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Steroids / pharmacology
  • Steroids / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Androgen Antagonists
  • Neuroprotective Agents
  • Steroids