From Neuroinflammation to Neuroprotection: Focus on Potential New Therapeutic Targets in Cognitive Impairment

Neurodegeneration is closely linked to neuroinflammation. It is often associated with oxidative stress and meaningful changes in cell energy metabolism. Neuroinflammation is due to non-neuronal cell activation (microglia, astrocytes, mast cells) activation and proliferation. Also, it is associated with pro-inflammatory substances release, able to modify synaptic plasticity. Microglia and astrocytes activation lead to toxic agent’s release (reactive oxygen species, inflammatory cytokines); however, the final target of this process is the cholinergic neuron. A number of substances can promote neuroprotection; recent scientific evidence focuses on the role of sirtuins. In particular, SIRT1 is activated by caloric restriction, NAD biosynthesis and different activators, called STACs (Sirtuin Activating Compounds). Citicoline is one of the most powerful STACs. It has been widely shown to possess neuroprotective action, and lots of studies strengthened its possible role.