neuro-nutraceuticals and drug discovery and delivery in alzheimer’s disease: volume 1: targeting key pathological pathways

The number of people living with dementia is expected to rise from 55 million in 2019 to 139 million in 2050, according to a report by WHO. Treatments and potential cures for Alzheimer’s have been researched for a long time now. Conventional drugs, while providing symptomatic relief, have often fallen short of halting the relentless progression of this neurodegenerative disorder. This new two-volume set, Neuro-Nutraceuticals and Drug Discovery and Delivery in Alzheimer’s Disease, 2-volume set, represents a collective effort to delve into the potential of nature’s pharmacopeia in our battle against Alzheimer’s disease. The editors posit that essential insights into the intricacies of the disease are the foundation for subsequent discussions on potential therapeutic interventions.

Volume 1: Targeting Key Pathological Pathways first lays the foundation by unveiling the underlying pathological, biochemical, molecular, and genetic aspects of Alzheimer’s disease. These chapters provide essential insights into the intricacies of the disease and serve as a springboard for the subsequent discussions on potential therapeutic interventions. Chapters cover pathophysiology and diagnosis, the connection of gut microbiome and Alzheimer’s disease, drug-induced Alzheimer’s disease, and more. The volume then goes on to shine a spotlight on the vast potential of nutraceuticals in managing Alzheimer’s disease. It explores a plethora of medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites that show promise in treating this devastating condition. From preclinical findings to clinical studies, the chapters present a wealth of knowledge on memory improvement effects and the mechanisms underlying the actions of these neuronutraceuticals. Covered are the role of diet, micronutrients, and macronutrients in managing Alzheimer’s disease; Medhya Rasayana (medicinal plants described in the Indian system of medicine that are said to improve memory and intellect); nootropics (also known as drug cognitive enhancers that help to improve memory, increase mental alertness and concentration as well as boost energy levels and wakefulness); and other ethnopharmacological approaches for dementia.

Together, these volumes not only reflect the current state of knowledge but also pave the way for future exploration in the field. Neuro-Nutraceuticals and Drug Discovery and Delivery in Alzheimer’s Disease will enlighten readers, whether seasoned researchers, practitioners, or advanced students, with a wealth of scientific knowledge gained through the cutting-edge research and in-depth exploration of the therapeutic potential of nature’s offerings and shall contribute to the ongoing efforts in managing dementia and cognitive disorders.

Varinder Singh, PhD, is working as Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Technology at Maharaja Ranjit Singh Punjab Technical University, Bathinda, Punjab, India. His research interests primarily lie in the discovery and development of natural products for therapeutic use. He is well-versed in the fields of natural product chemistry (isolation and characterization of bioactive natural compounds), drug discovery, and pharmacology. He has a strong record of publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals (39 peer-reviewed publications), with many of his papers cited extensively in the field of natural products. He has one patent granted. He has been awarded with numerous travel grants from government and non-government organizations, including the Alzheimer’s Association International, the Indian Department of Science and Technology, Indian Council of Medical Research, and International Brain Research Organization. He earned his PhD (Pharmaceutical Sciences) at Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab, India.

Amit Kumar, PhD, is working as Associate Professor at Chitkara College of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Punjab, India. He has 12 years of teaching and research experience and has published more than 20 research articles in international journals. He has to date 371 citations and an h-index of 11. He has filed three patents. His area of research includes neuroprotective drug development and elucidating pathological features of diseases. He has received various awards and grants from the International Brain Research Organization, the Indian Department of Science and Technology (DST)-Science and Engineering Research Board, and the Indian Council of Medical Research. He is a certified trainer of Scientific Medical Writing approved from the Life Sciences Sector Skill Development Council and DST (Govt. of India). He received his graduate, postgraduate, and PhD degrees in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Punjabi University Patiala, Punjab, India.

Parul Sood, PhD, is working as an Associate Professor at Chitkara School of Pharmacy, Chitkara University, Himachal Pradesh, India. She has more than 14 years of professional experience in teaching and research. Her area of specialization and research is exploring herbal plants for the treatment of various neurological disorders including, Alzheimer’s disease, as well as pharmacognostical and phytochemical evaluation, and standardization of herbal drugs and herbal drug formulation development. She is a gold medalist in MPharm and GATE as well as GPAT qualified. She has a total of 12 publications in reputed journals and has presented a total of 15 oral/poster presentations at national and international conferences and was awarded third position at two national conferences. She completed her PhD at the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Punjabi University Patiala, Punjab, India.