Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Domoic Acid-Induced Neurotoxicity and Therapeutic Drugs: A Comprehensive Review
Abstract
Domoic acid (DA) is a neurotoxic terpenoid compound produced by certain marine algae. It accumulates through the food web and poses a significant threat to humans and animals by selectively targeting hippocampal neurons, leading to neuronal degeneration, necrosis, and subsequent memory impairment. The primary mechanism involves its potent agonism at glutamate receptors, which induces excessive calcium influx, resulting in excitotoxic cell swelling and death. Recent studies have further elucidated the critical role of downstream oxidative stress and other pathogenic factors in DA-induced neurotoxicity. These insights into its multifaceted mechanism have paved the way for novel therapeutic strategies, highlighting promising directions for future treatment development.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Marine Toxins and Detection Methods
Seaweed-derived Bioactive Compounds
Marine Sponges and Natural Products
Publication details
- Journal / source
- International Journal of Molecular Sciences
- Publisher
- MDPI AG
- Volume
- 27
- Issue
- 2
- Pages
- 867–867
- Publication date
- 15 January 2026
- Language
- EN