Neuropharmacological Potential and Delivery Prospects of Thymoquinone for Neurological Disorders

Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2018 Mar 20:2018:1209801. doi: 10.1155/2018/1209801. eCollection 2018.

Abstract

Thymoquinone (TQ) is an active ingredient isolated from Nigella sativa and has various pharmacological activities, such as protection against oxidative stress, inflammation, and infections. In addition, it might be a potential neuropharmacological agent because it exhibits versatile potential for attenuating neurological impairments. It features greater beneficial effects in toxin-induced neuroinflammation and neurotoxicity. In various models of neurological disorders, it demonstrates emergent functions, including safeguarding various neurodegenerative diseases and other neurological diseases, such as stroke, schizophrenia, and epilepsy. TQ also has potential effects in trauma mediating and chemical-, radiation-, and drug-induced central nervous system injuries. Considering the pharmacokinetic limitations, research has concentrated on different TQ novel formulations and delivery systems. Here, we visualize the neuropharmacological potential, challenges, and delivery prospects of TQ, specifically focusing on neurological disorders along with its chemistry, pharmacokinetics, and toxicity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Infective Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Antioxidants / therapeutic use*
  • Benzoquinones / therapeutic use*
  • Drug Delivery Systems
  • Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions
  • Humans
  • Nervous System / drug effects*
  • Nervous System Diseases / drug therapy*
  • Neuropharmacology*
  • Nigella sativa / metabolism

Substances

  • Anti-Infective Agents
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Antioxidants
  • Benzoquinones
  • thymoquinone