Neurodegeneration

Neurodegeneration is the progressive loss of structure or function of neurons in the central or peripheral nervous system, ultimately leading to neuronal dysfunction and cell death. It underlies a group of conditions known as neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

Neurodegenerative processes typically involve mechanisms such as protein misfolding and aggregation, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and disruption of synaptic signaling, and manifest clinically through progressive impairments in cognition, motor function, behavior, and mood. Risk is shaped by a combination of genetic, environmental, vascular, metabolic, and lifestyle factors, including dietary patterns, physical activity, sleep, and psychosocial engagement.