Molecular Insights into Neurodegeneration—Pathways, Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies

Dear Colleagues,

Neurodegenerative diseases pose a formidable challenge to global healthcare, affecting millions of individuals worldwide and placing an increasing burden on societies as populations age. Among these disorders, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) stand out as prominent contributors to the rising numbers of neurological disorders. The urgency to unravel the molecular intricacies underlying neurodegeneration has never been more critical, as it opens avenues for early diagnosis and innovative treatment strategies. In recent years, significant strides have been made in understanding the molecular mechanisms that drive neurodegeneration. Advances in molecular biology, genetics and imaging technologies have allowed researchers to delve deeper into the intricate cellular processes involved in the progression of these diseases. This deeper understanding extends from the aberrant protein misfolding and aggregation characteristic of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases, to the genetic mutations underpinning Huntington's disease and the complex interplay of various cellular pathways implicated in ALS. The quest for reliable diagnostic tools has gained momentum alongside molecular insights into neurodegenerative processes. Early and accurate diagnosis remains a cornerstone for effective intervention, and emerging biomarkers, neuroimaging techniques and liquid biopsy approaches offer promising avenues for identifying the pre-symptomatic stages of neurodegenerative diseases. These diagnostic tools not only provide a window of opportunity for timely therapeutic interventions, but also contribute to our understanding of disease progression at its earliest phases. As molecular knowledge expands, so does the landscape of potential treatment strategies. Precision medicine approaches, targeting specific molecular pathways and genetic factors, are at the forefront of therapeutic development. From gene therapies and protein-targeting drugs to neuroprotective compounds, the arsenal against neurodegeneration is expanding rapidly. The integration of molecular insights into personalized treatment plans holds the promise of more effective and tailored interventions, bringing hope to individuals grappling with these debilitating conditions. Through this comprehensive exploration, we will navigate the intricate web of molecular insights into neurodegeneration, examining the latest breakthroughs in diagnosis and treatment strategies that offer a beacon of hope for patients and their families in the face of these challenging neurological disorders.

Dr. Arun Upadhyay
Guest Editor

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• neurodegeneration
• protein aggregation
• amyloids
• proteostasis
• diagnosis
• treatment
• biomarkers
• drugs