Neuronal metabolic enzymes

Neuronal metabolic enzymes are a diverse group of proteins essential for meeting the high energy demands of the central nervous system, facilitating pathways such as glycolysis, the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle, and oxidative phosphorylation (NIH, 2023; Frontiers in Neuroscience, 2023). These enzymes, including hexokinase, pyruvate dehydrogenase, and glutaminase, ensure a constant supply of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) required for maintaining ion gradients, synaptic transmission, and neurotransmitter synthesis (Scribd, 2022; NIH, 2025). Dysregulation of these enzymes is a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, where impaired energy production and increased oxidative stress contribute to neuronal death (MDPI, 2023; Nature Metabolism, 2025). Therapeutic strategies targeting these enzymes, such as the use of metformin or ketogenic agents like tricaprilin, aim to restore metabolic homeostasis and provide neuroprotection (MDPI, 2023; NIH, 2026). However, drug development faces significant challenges, including the requirement for blood-brain barrier penetration and the risk of systemic metabolic side effects (Gain Therapeutics, 2023).

Other names

Brain metabolic enzymesNeuronal energy metabolism enzymesCerebral metabolic enzymesMetabolic enzymes of the nervous system

Modulation of enzymatic activity to restore energy production, reduce the accumulation of toxic metabolic byproducts, or enhance cellular resilience against oxidative stress and protein misfolding.