Neurotrophic factor-like substances and inducers of neurotrophic factor biosynthesis have enormous therapeutic potential for serious neuronal diseases such as Alzheimer's disease. Here, we discuss about the pharmacological effects of scabronines and beta-eudesmol as promising candidates of leading compounds against the dementia. In addition, we discuss about the signaling pathway of nerve growth factor and cyclic AMP in order to seek the signaling molecules as targets of drug development.