Mechanisms underlying select chemotherapeutic-agent-induced neuroinflammation and subsequent neurodegeneration

Abstract

This review demonstrates the importance of uncovering the mechanisms that underlie chemotherapy-induced neuroinflammation. It builds upon the well-established connection between chemotherapeutic-agents and neurotoxicity along with widespread peripheral toxicities. This article summarises the major studies which have linked chemotherapy-induced neurodegeneration with direct evidence of neuroinflammation. Cancer and chemotherapy-related adverse effects impact a large proportion of the population. A better understanding of the link between chemotherapy, neurotoxicity and specifically the mechanisms of neuroinflammation, will allow the development of strategies to improve the management of side effects, and overall to reduce the burden on cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. This review has developed a summary schematic of the relationship between different chemotherapeutic agents and inflammatory markers within the central nervous system and links this correlation with some major ailments associated with chemotherapy use.

Keywords: Cancer; Chemotherapeutic agents; Chemotherapy; Neurodegeneration; Neuroinflammation; Neurotoxicity.