Targeting Protein Misfolding and Aggregation as a Therapeutic Perspective in Neurodegenerative Disorders

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Pathology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Abnormal protein deposition and spread are central to neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis.
• Protein oligomers and filaments are key in diseases like synucleinopathies (e.g., Parkinson's disease) and tauopathies (e.g., Alzheimer's disease).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review mechanisms of protein-dependent neurodegeneration.
• To describe current therapeutic strategies targeting protein misfolding and aggregation.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of common neurodegenerative disorders.
• Analysis of therapeutic approaches targeting pathological protein forms.

Main Results:

• Synucleinopathies and tauopathies involve specific protein aggregation pathways.
• Inhibition of protein misfolding and interneuronal spread is a promising therapeutic avenue.

Conclusions:

• Targeting pathological protein mechanisms is crucial for treating neurodegenerative disorders.
• Developing therapies to inhibit protein misfolding and aggregation holds significant potential for disease modification.