Targets of Neuroprotection and Review of Pharmacological Interventions in Traumatic Brain Injury

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a major contributor to disability and death worldwide, and manifests in cognitive, behavioral, and motor impairment. Although there have been numerous pre-clinical studies that have identified promising pharmacologic treatments, to date, all Phase III clinical trials have failed. Thus, this is a priority area for ongoing research and development. Treatment strategies have traditionally focused on neuroprotection of the injured brain to reduce secondary injury, neuronal death, and lesion size. The aim of this minireview is to describe the secondary injury pathophysiology of TBI and give an examination of key targets of neuroprotection, select Phase III trials that have been undertaken, and future possibilities for successful drug development.