Redox Imbalances in Dysmetabolism-Related, Neurodegenerative Diseases: Can Phytochemicals Exert Beneficial Effects?

Dear Colleagues,

Overnutrition and modern diets containing high proportions of saturated fat are among the major factors responsible for the development of metabolic alterations associated with low-grade, chronic inflammation such as hyperglycaemia and dyslipidaemia. Interestingly enough, such dysmetabolic states are now recognised as relevant risk factors for the onset and the development of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and other cognitive impairments.

It has been suggested that one of the mechanistic links between dysmetabolism and neurodegenerative disorders might well be related to the alteration of selected, redox-dependent signal transduction pathways responsible for glucose and lipid homeostasis. In these scenarios, the molecular interconnections between neuroinflammation and metabolic alterations could represent a potential therapeutic target to prevent or ameliorate neurodegenerative diseases.

Originally considered ‘health-promoting’ by virtue of their radical-scavenging or direct antioxidant effects on cellular biomolecules, phytochemicals (PhCs) are now believed to effectively modulate the inflammatory response by intercepting reactive species at the level of critical signalling pathways. Coherently, growing evidence shows that certain PhCs could play a beneficial role in neurodegenerative diseases. Indeed, the inhibition of the self-feeding cycle between chronic neuroinflammation, insulin resistance, and oxidative stress has emerged as a possible mechanism for the neuroprotective effects of particular PhCs.

The aim of this Special Issue is to bring together updated research on the redox-dependent, molecular interconnections between dysmetabolism and neurodegeneration both in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, studies on the mechanisms underlying the protective effects of phytochemicals and their synergistic interactions with pharmaceuticals will also be considered. Authors are invited to submit manuscripts in the form of both original research and review articles.

Dr. Mario Allegra
Dr. Giuditta Gambino
Guest Editors

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