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Published on: February 14, 2021
Autophagy and apoptosis dysfunction in neurodegenerative disorders
Saeid Ghavami1, Shahla Shojaei2, Behzad Yeganeh3
1Department of Human Anatomy and Cell Science, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Manitoba Institute of Child Health, Department of Physiology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; St. Boniface Research Centre, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
Autophagy and apoptosis are crucial for cell health. Deregulation of autophagy is linked to neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting therapeutic potential for these pathways.
Area of Science:
- Cellular Biology
- Neuroscience
- Pathophysiology
Background:
- Autophagy and apoptosis are fundamental cellular processes essential for maintaining homeostasis.
- Dysregulation of autophagy is implicated in the development and progression of neurodegenerative disorders.
- Neurodegenerative diseases pose a growing health and economic burden globally.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current findings on autophagy's role in neurodegenerative diseases.
- To explore the interplay between autophagy, apoptosis, mitochondria, and lysosomes in brain homeostasis.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting autophagy and apoptosis for neurodegenerative conditions.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent findings on autophagy and neurodegeneration.
- Focus on the roles of mitochondria and lysosomes in autophagy and apoptosis pathways.
- Examination of the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Huntington's, and ALS.
Main Results:
- Autophagy plays a critical role in cellular homeostasis and is implicated in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis.
- Mitochondria and lysosomes are key organelles involved in both autophagy and apoptosis.
- Specific neurodegenerative diseases exhibit distinct alterations in these cellular processes.
Conclusions:
- Modulating autophagy and apoptosis pathways offers potential therapeutic avenues for neurodegenerative disorders.
- Understanding the intricate roles of autophagy and apoptosis is vital for developing effective treatments.
- Targeting these cellular mechanisms could help manage brain homeostasis in neurodegenerative conditions.
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