NeuroAiD: Properties for Neuroprotection and Neurorepair

Background: Treatments for stroke and other brain injuries are limited. NeuroAiD has been shown to be beneficial in clinical studies. We reviewed the pharmacological effects of NeuroAiD on the normal and ischemic brain and neurons. Methods: In vivo and in vitro experiments using mouse model of stroke (focal ischemia), rat model of cardiac arrest (global ischemia) and cortical neurons in culture were reviewed and summarized. Results: NeuroAiD improved survival, attenuated infarct size, improved functional recovery in the model of focal ischemia, and protected neurons against glutamate-induced injury. Furthermore, it enhanced cognitive recovery by reducing hippocampal CA1 cell degeneration, DNA fragmentation, Bax expression and malondialdehyde release in the model of global ischemia. Activation of the Akt survival pathway and opening of K ATP channels may contribute to the neuroprotective properties of NeuroAiD. NeuroAiD increased BDNF expression and induced proliferation of cells which differentiate and mature into neurons. It enhanced rosette formation of human embryonic stem cells. NeuroAiD-treated embryonic cortical neurons developed into neurons with longer neurites, dens