天美传媒

Abstract

The blood-brain barrier (BBB) presents a formidable challenge for delivering therapeutics to the central nervous system (CNS), impeding the efficacy of many potential treatments for neurological disorders. Recent research has increasingly focused on natural products as promising candidates for overcoming this barrier. This article reviews recent advances in natural products research, highlighting how compounds derived from plants, fungi, and microorganisms have demonstrated the ability to cross the BBB. Key mechanisms facilitating this include molecular size, lipophilicity, active transport, and receptor-mediated uptake. Notable examples include curcumin, resveratrol, ginsenosides, and epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which have shown neuroprotective and therapeutic potential. The article also explores advancements in drug delivery systems, such as nanoparticles, that enhance the bioavailability of these natural compounds. Despite significant progress, challenges such as bioavailability, stability, and safety remain. Future research will focus on optimizing delivery methods and understanding the mechanisms of action to fully harness the therapeutic potential of natural products in treating CNS diseases.