The neuroprotective potential of carbazole in traumatic brain injury.

Objective: To review the neuroprotective potential of carbazole and its derivatives in the management of traumatic brain injury (TBI), focusing on their mechanisms of action, preclinical findings, and potential clinical applications.

Data sources: Relevant literature was identified through a comprehensive search of PubMed, Embase, Medline, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases.

Review methods: This review includes an analysis of studies investigating the neuroprotective properties of carbazole, emphasizing its anti-apoptotic, antioxidative, neurotrophic, and mitochondrial protective mechanisms. The scope of the review covers preclinical studies and explores future directions for clinical translation.

Results: Carbazole compounds demonstrate significant neuroprotective effects by reducing oxidative stress, inhibiting apoptosis, and promoting neuroregeneration in preclinical models of TBI. These compounds also potentially preserve blood-brain barrier integrity and modulate inflammatory responses. However, clinical studies evaluating carbazole-based therapies in human subjects are limited, highlighting a critical gap in translational research.

Conclusion: Carbazole and its derivatives are promising therapeutic agents for mitigating secondary damage and enhancing recovery in TBI. Further research is warranted to establish their efficacy and safety in clinical settings and to explore their potential as part of combination therapies for TBI management.