Small nucleolar RNAs: Emerging therapeutic and diagnostic frontiers in Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder for which effective therapeutic interventions remain scarce, highlighting the urgent need for new molecular approaches. Small nucleolar RNAs (snoRNAs), classically known for directing ribosomal modifications, have recently emerged as multifunctional regulators of gene expression, stress responses and neuronal homeostasis. Emerging evidence shows snoRNA dysregulation in the biofluids and brain tissue of patients with AD, positioning them as promising diagnostic biomarkers and therapeutic targets. This review outlines the structural, functional and translational potential of snoRNAs, with a particular focus on their ability to modulate AD pathology while also addressing key challenges in their clinical translation, including delivery barriers, biological stability and target specificity.