Tetracycline antibiotics: Emerging roles in neuropsychiatric disorders

Tetracyclines are broad-spectrum antibiotics used primarily for bacterial infections and various other conditions. Experimental studies have demonstrated their neurogenesis-inducing, neuroprotective, antioxidant, antinociceptive, antiapoptotic, and anti-glutamate-induced excitotoxicity properties. Due to these attributes, it is believed that when combined with antipsychotic medications used in psychiatric disorders, tetracyclines may facilitate the treatment of conditions such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and schizophrenia. This review article examines the biochemical structure, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic properties of the tetracycline group of antibiotics, as well as their uses in various diseases. It particularly focuses on the neuroprotective, antioxidant, antinociceptive, antiapoptotic, and anti-glutamate-induced excitotoxicity properties of minocycline. Additionally, the potential use of minocycline in the treatment of psychiatric disorders such as ASD, MDD, and schizophrenia is discussed.