The intrinsic and adaptive physiological processes that safeguard neurons and glial cells from damage, degeneration, and functional decline caused by oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic insult. These mechanisms are vital for maintaining cognitive function and structural integrity of the central and peripheral nervous systems throughout life. Hormonal signaling plays a direct role in enhancing these protective pathways.
Origin
This term stems from neuroscience and pharmacology, focusing on the therapeutic and endogenous strategies to prevent neurodegenerative disease. It has been adopted in wellness to describe the active, modifiable processes of brain health maintenance. The concept emphasizes the brain’s own repair and defense systems.
Mechanism
Protection is achieved through multiple pathways, including the upregulation of antioxidant enzymes, maintenance of blood-brain barrier integrity, and modulation of microglial activity to suppress neuroinflammation. Key hormones, such as progesterone and estrogen, exert direct neurotrophic effects, promoting synaptic health and stimulating the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF). Optimal glucose metabolism ensures a steady, non-toxic fuel supply to the metabolically demanding neural tissue.
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