Role of Phytocompounds En Route Blood-brain Barrier in Cerebral Ischemia

Aims: Cerebral ischemia is a condition that occurs when the blood vessels in the brain are occluded. Subsequent pathophysiological changes include critical structural and functional damage to the blood-brain barrier. Since remedies for restoring the blood-brain barrier are lacking, alternative methods are important. This study aims to discuss the potential role of phytochemicals in ameliorating blood-brain barrier inflammation and hyperpermeability.

Methodology: This literature review is based on information available in open source databases for the scientific community.

Results: Phytochemicals offer a large resource for neuroprotective cure. Different categories of phytochemical compounds have provided safer and accessible means of medication. A number of phytochemicals have demonstrated antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. The respective mechanisms of action have also been discovered for many. Phytochemicals generally inhibit the classic inflammatory signalling molecules, in addition to other pathways. Phytochemicals also strengthen the tight junctional complexes in the blood-brain barrier. Thus phytochemicals substantially improve the affected blood-brain barrier after cerebral ischemia.

Conclusion: Phytochemicals possess useful properties directed towards the healing of the blood-brain barrier in cerebral ischemia and further research may elevate phytochemicals as approved therapeutics.