Neurodegeneração

Neurodegeneração refers to the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons, including the death of neurons. This process underlies a range of debilitating neurological disorders that affect millions worldwide. These conditions are characterized by the gradual breakdown of nerve cells, leading to a decline in cognitive, motor, or sensory functions. The specific symptoms and progression depend on the type of neurons affected and the brain regions involved.

Common neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and various forms of dementia. While the exact causes for most neurodegenerative diseases are not fully understood, research points to a complex interplay of genetic predisposition, environmental factors, and cellular dysfunction. Accumulation of misfolded proteins, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and inflammatory processes are frequently implicated as key mechanisms contributing to neuronal damage.

Diagnosis often involves a combination of clinical assessment, neurological examinations, neuroimaging techniques like MRI and PET scans, and sometimes genetic testing or cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Currently, treatments primarily focus on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression, as there are generally no cures for most neurodegenerative conditions. Ongoing research aims to identify effective therapeutic strategies, including gene therapy, protein-targeting drugs, and neuroprotective agents, to prevent or reverse neuronal loss.