HYPERGLYCEMIA-INDUCED NEURONAL DAMAGE: MOLECULAR MECHANISMS AND POTENTIAL THERAPEUTIC STRATEGIES

Author

Abinaya G, Vimalya S, Bhavani N, Muneeshwaran G, Arokiya R


Abstract

 Hyperglycaemia-induced neuronal damage is an important complication of diabetes mellitus and is associated with progressive alterations in neuronal function and structure. Persistent elevation of blood glucose can initiate multiple molecular and cellular mechanisms, including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, advanced glycation end-product formation, neuroinflammation, impaired insulin signalling, and activation of apoptotic pathways. These interconnected mechanisms contribute to neuronal injury and may subsequently affect cognitive, sensory, and motor functions. Understanding the molecular basis of hyperglycaemia-induced neuronal damage is therefore essential for identifying potential therapeutic approaches.

This review focuses on the major molecular mechanisms involved in hyperglycaemias-induced neuronal damage and discusses potential therapeutic strategies for preventing or attenuating neuronal injury. Particular emphasis is given to oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species generation, mitochondrial dysfunction, neuroinflammatory signalling, apoptosis, advanced glycation, and disruption of neuronal survival pathways. The review also discusses emerging therapeutic approaches, including conventional antidiabetic agents, antioxidants, anti-inflammatory strategies, neuroprotective agents, and plant-derived bioactive compounds. In addition, the potential role of combination and synergistic therapeutic approaches in targeting multiple pathological pathways is highlighted. A better understanding of these mechanisms may support the development of effective strategies for reducing diabetes-associated neuronal complications and improving neurological outcomes.



Keywords

Hyperglycaemia; Neuronal damage; Diabetes mellitus; Oxidative stress; Neuroinflammation; Mitochondrial dysfunction; Apoptosis; Neuroprotection; Therapeutic strategies; Plant-derived bioactive compounds.



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References


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