Alkaloids as New Leads for Neurodegenerative Diseases

Abstract

Conventionally, diseases involving the selective loss of neurons are referred to as neurodegenerative diseases. Traditional and more recent compounds have been explored, but they only provide symptomatic benefits and have a large number of negative effects. It will be regarded as a modern vision if stronger molecules are found that can stop the pathophysiology of these diseases. In order to replace existing medications, natural compounds are being developed from plants and other sources. Natural products, including alkaloids that originate from plants, have emerged as potential protective agents against neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s), psychiatric conditions, and many more. They provided unique lead compounds for medicine. Alkaloids could be exploited as starting materials for novel drug synthesis or, to a lesser extent, used to manage neurodegenerative-related complications due to their diverse mechanistic effects. This chapter aims to highlight the importance of alkaloids as new leads for the development of potential clinical drug candidates for the management and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.