Neuromodulation and Metabolic Detoxification: Natural Compounds as Mediators Between Environmental Toxicity and Neurodegenerative Risks in Diabetic Conditions
Fabiola Mwendwa G.
School of Applied Health Sciences Kampala International University Uganda
ABSTRACT
Diabetes mellitus alters systemic metabolism and increases vulnerability to both environmental toxicants and neurodegenerative processes. Environmental chemicals-heavy metals, persistent organic pollutants, pesticides, and air pollutants-can exacerbate oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, and impaired proteostasis, mechanisms that overlap with metabolic derangements in diabetes and with pathways leading to neurodegeneration. Natural compounds derived from plants, marine organisms, and fungi possess dual activities: they can modulate neuronal signaling (neuromodulation) and support metabolic detoxification pathways (phase I/II enzymes, antioxidant defenses, metal chelation). This review synthesizes mechanistic evidence linking environmental toxicant exposure and heightened neurodegenerative risk in diabetic settings, and examines how selected natural compounds (polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenoids, alkaloids, marine carotenoids, and omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids) act as mediators that simultaneously attenuate toxicant burden and preserve neuronal function. We discuss modes of action-Nrf2 activation, mitochondrial stabilization, modulation of cytochrome P450 and conjugating enzymes, metal chelation, anti-inflammatory and anti-aggregate effects, and direct modulation of ion channels and neurotransmitter systems. Preclinical and emerging clinical data supporting neuroprotective and detoxification roles are summarized, along with formulation, pharmacokinetic, and safety considerations. We conclude by outlining research priorities to translate dual-action natural compounds into integrative strategies for reducing neurodegenerative risk in people with diabetes who face environmental chemical exposures.
Keywords: diabetes, environmental toxicants, neuromodulation, detoxification, natural compounds
CITE AS: Fabiola Mwendwa G. (2026). Neuromodulation and Metabolic Detoxification: Natural Compounds as Mediators Between Environmental Toxicity and Neurodegenerative Risks in Diabetic Conditions. IDOSR JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY, CHEMISTRY AND PHARMACY 11(1):52-56. https://doi.org/10.59298/IDOSR/JBCP/26/102.5256