Integrative Nanomedicine Approaches and Secondary Metabolites in Neurodegenerative Diseases

The potential of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems and bioactive secondary metabolites offers promising avenues for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. Neurodegeneration, driven by oxidative stress, protein aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuroinflammation, presents complex therapeutic challenges. Nanocarriers such as polymeric, lipid-based, and metallic nanoparticles enable targeted delivery, improved blood–brain barrier penetration, and enhanced bioavailability of neuroprotective compounds. Meanwhile, secondary metabolites ncluding polyphenols, flavonoids, and alkaloids exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and autophagy-regulating activities, positioning them as valuable agents for neuroprotection. The molecular mechanisms underlying these effects involve modulation of key cellular signaling pathways. Ongoing challenges in clinical translation, alongside regulatory considerations and future directions for integrating nanotechnology with natural bioactive compounds, are also critically assessed.