The neuroprotective effect of ursodeoxycholic acid in different neurological diseases

Document Type : Review Article

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Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt

Abstract

Bile acids are amphipathic molecules generated by the liver to act as detergents in which fat-soluble vitamins and dietary lipids are being dissolved. They are group of diverse molecules which differ in some properties including the hydrophilicity. The hydrophilic member, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), is known for its cytoprotective characteristics. It has been authorized to be used as a first-line therapy for primary biliary cholangitis by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Recently, its application has expanded to include extrahepatic conditions. Its several modes of action, which include lowering cell death and exhibiting anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, are responsible for this adaptability. A considerable number of studies have been conducted in recent years on how bile acids affect brain function, offering insightful information and creating new research opportunities. In this review, we outlined the potential use of UDCA as a treatment for various neurological diseseses such as seizures, alzheimer’s disease, parkinson's disease, huntington's disease and stroke and psychiatric conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Keywords

Archives of Pharmaceutical Sciences Ain Shams University
Volume 9, Issue 2
Special issue in Pharmacology and Toxicology: Innovative Pharmacological Interventions for Different Diseases
October 2025
Pages 314-322

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