Endothelial Dysfunction in Neurodegenerative Diseases.

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Vascular Biology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• The cerebral vascular system regulates cerebral blood flow (CBF) and maintains the blood-brain barrier (BBB).
• Vascular pathology and BBB dysregulation are implicated in aging, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of vascular dysfunction in aging and neurodegenerative diseases, specifically AD and VaD.
• To explore the molecular mechanisms underlying cerebrovascular dysfunction in these conditions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on studies examining cerebrovascular changes in aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Analysis of the impact of vascular pathology on CBF, BBB integrity, and cognitive function.

Main Results:

• Vascular dysfunction, characterized by altered cerebral blood vessel morphology and local cell changes, affects CBF, fluid dynamics, and vascular integrity.
• Chronic vascular inflammation and dysregulation exacerbate cerebrovascular dysfunction, contributing to cognitive impairment.

Conclusions:

• Cerebrovascular dysfunction is a significant factor in aging and neurodegenerative diseases like AD and VaD.
• Understanding the pathophysiology and molecular mechanisms of vascular dysfunction may lead to novel vascular biomarkers for disease prevention and treatment.