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Endothelial Dysfunction in Huntington's Disease: Pathophysiology and Therapeutic Implications
Ning Hu1, Zihao Chen2, Xinyue Zhao1
1School of Chemistry, Chemical Engineering and Life Science, Wuhan University of Technology, 122 Luoshi Road, Wuhan 430070, China.
International Journal of Molecular Sciences
|February 26, 2025
Summary
Huntington's disease (HD) involves endothelial dysfunction, impacting blood flow and the blood-brain barrier. Targeting these vascular issues may offer new therapeutic avenues for this neurodegenerative disorder.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Vascular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Huntington's disease (HD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder.
- Traditionally, HD pathogenesis focused on neuronal dysfunction.
- Emerging evidence implicates endothelial dysfunction in HD.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review endothelial dysfunction in Huntington's disease.
- To explore genetic factors influencing endothelial function in HD.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies targeting vascular aspects of HD.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of animal models and human studies on HD.
- Analysis of genetic factors (mutant huntingtin, PGC-1α, BDNF, ADORA2A) in endothelial dysfunction.
- Evaluation of preclinical therapeutic approaches.
Main Results:
- Endothelial dysfunction in HD includes impaired angiogenesis, altered cerebral blood flow, and increased blood-brain barrier permeability.
- Genetic factors intricately modulate endothelial function in HD.
- Vascular-targeted therapies show preclinical promise but face translational hurdles.
Conclusions:
- Reconceptualizing HD as a neurovascular disorder is crucial for developing effective treatments.
- Future research needs validated vascular biomarkers and advanced neuroimaging for real-time monitoring.
- Bridging the gap between preclinical findings and clinical success requires focus on vascular targets.
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