*3.2. Targeting of Oxidative Stress in Neurodegenerative Diseases*

For the management of oxidative stress-mediated neurodegeneration, it is essential that antioxidant therapies be administered that target reactive oxygen species and suppress oxidative stress, thereby decreasing the intensity of neurodegeneration. Antioxidants are endogenous or exogenous molecules that antagonize the effects produced by reactive oxygen species and oxidative stress in the cellular system. These compounds neutralize the effect of reactive oxygen species and engulf any free radicals, thereby inhibiting conditions of oxidative stress [80].

By altering the foods in our diet, we can enhance the intake of antioxidants by consuming food products rich in flavonoids, lipoic acid, phenolic compounds, beta carotene, and ascorbic acid (Vitamin C). These naturally occurring antioxidants prevent the protein and lipid oxidation process in the body, thereby suppressing the generation of ROS and

upstreaming the therapeutic barrier to oxidative stress. The ROS initiate excitotoxicity and modulate the glutamate receptors by over-activating them.

The drugs that target these receptors can be efficiently used in upstreaming the antioxidant profile and in the management of neurodegenerative diseases by blocking these specific receptors. For instance, Alzheimer's disease can be slowed down by administering memantine, which targets N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor and imparts modest benefits to the patient suffering from a moderate to severe range of the disease. An upcoming therapeutic aspect for the prevention of neuronal cell death and the regulation of oxidative stress includes vaccination of the individual against the potential toxic proteins that are formed in several types of neurodegenerative disorders. A promising example is vaccination against the beta-amyloid protein, which is mainly found in patients with Alzheimer's disease. Vaccination against it prevents the formation of plaque and subsequent neuroinflammation.
