Abstract
This goal of this research is to investigate the effectiveness of N-Acetylcysteine and Vitamin C in the treatment of the secondary effects of moderate Traumatic Brain Injury. Traumatic Brain Injury initiates a biochemical series of events within neurons and neighboring cells that may continue to cause damage in the form of oxidative stress after the impact. Under normal conditions, various enzymes and antioxidants are employed to counteract this, but significant trauma may overwhelm the body’s natural oxidative stress defense mechanisms. Researchers have investigated methods by which these mechanisms may be augmented. N-Acetylcyteine allows for an increased production of the antioxidant glutathione. It is a readily available due to its use in the treatment of other conditions, and the side effects and other safety concerns are thoroughly documented. Vitamin C is able to directly act as an antioxidant to reduce oxidative stress. It is an essential vitamin for life, and it is relatively safe at high doses with few side effects. This study also compares the efficacy of these compounds with other experimental medications. These medications have proven to be effective through animal trials, but have failed in human testing. Additionally, the adverse effects are many.
Semester/Year of Award
Spring 2015
Mentor
Tanea T. Reed
Mentor Department Affiliation
Chemistry
Access Options
Restricted Access Thesis
Document Type
Bachelor Thesis
Degree Name
Honors Scholars
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Department
Chemistry
Recommended Citation
Carman, Daniel L., "The Efficacy of N-Acetylcysteine and Vitamin C in the Treatment of the Secondary Effects of Moderate Traumatic Brain Injury" (2015). Honors Theses. 218.
https://encompass.eku.edu/honors_theses/218
