Chapter 9 - Mitochondria-targeted drug delivery systems for the effective treatment of neurodegenerative disorders

Abstract

Mitochondria are known to be the powerhouse of the cell. Its dysfunction leads to several alterations in cellular physiology. Mitochondrial dysfunction is a well-documented process in the pathophysiology of neurodegeneration and neurodegenerative disorders. The interplay between mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative stress is well suggested in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. The activation of autophagy is also well established along with the mitochondrial impairment in neurodegenerative disorders. The relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and excitotoxicity is also well established in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. Enhanced apoptosis and necrosis is well established along with mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathophysiology of neurodegenerative disorders. Several synthetic and herbal drugs have been established in the management of mitochondrial dysfunction-induced neurodegenerative disorders. Little information is available about the formulations of the established mitochondria-targeted drugs in the management of neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, critical attention is required in the development of mitochondria-targeted drug delivery systems for therapeutic and diagnostic applications in neurodegenerative disorders.