Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI), commonly termed “chemobrain,” represents a significant clinical challenge affecting 30-80% of cancer patients across various malignancies. This comprehensive review examines the molecular mechanisms underlying CICI and explores the neuroprotective potential of lauric acid as a preventive intervention. The pathophysiology of chemobrain involves complex interrelated mechanisms including blood-brain barrier disruption, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, DNA damage, and hormonal alterations. Lauric acid, a 12-carbon saturated fatty acid found predominantly in coconut oil, demonstrates unique metabolic properties including rapid mitochondrial transport, ketone body formation, and cellular redox homeostasis maintenance. Recent evidence suggests lauric acid promotes neuronal maturation through astrocyte-mediated mechanisms and exhibits neuroprotective effects in various neurological conditions. This review synthesizes current knowledge regarding CICI mechanisms and evaluates the therapeutic potential of lauric acid in preventing chemotherapy-associated cognitive decline, providing a foundation for future clinical investigations.

Keywords: Chemotherapy-induced Cognitive Impairment, Chemobrain, Lauric Acid, Neuroprotection, Oxidative Stress, Neuroinflammation