Cellular senescence in neurodegenerative disease

Neurodegenerative processes present common molecular and metabolic pathways with cellular senescence, of particular interest is the association between senescence biomarkers and the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Emerging studies have described the presence of senescent cells such as astrocytes, microglia, oligodendrocytes and neurons, in brains of patients with Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and Down Syndrome. These findings suggest that senescence-related mechanisms may play a crucial role in the development and progression of these conditions. In addition, some research projects postulate how affected cells can release pro-inflammatory cytokines which induce to a chronic inflammation enviroment and damage brain tissue. Despite these intriguing findings, the existing literature on this topic is limited, emphasizing the need for further comprehensive studies.

Telomerase activity, telomere length, mitochondrial energy metabolism as well as biophysical markers such as phase angle or cell membrane fluidity, among others, have been consistently associated with the presence of neurodegenerative diseases or their progression. Several studies show a concordance between environmental factors which promote accelerated aging with the risk of development or progression of neurodegenerative diseases for example, high carbohydrate intake, chronic stress, lack of physical activity and exposure to environmental toxins.

Biomarkers, biophysical markers and environmental risk factors converge in common metabolic and molecular pathways that could explain part of the phenotype observed in patients with neurodegenerative disease. Futhermore, they could account for disease progression and severity, as well as predict clinical outcomes relevant to modify or intensify treatment regimens. Finally, the relationships between these markers and environmental factors associated with senescence could be used to inform the design of innovative drugs.



Contributors are invited to address specific themes within this area of study, including:

● Neurodegenerative diseases

● Novel biomarkers of cellular senescence

● Novel biophysical markers

● In vitro and in vivo experiments of neural progenitors

● Brain damage by environmental factors

● Role of oxidative stress in neurological disorders

We welcome various types of manuscripts, including original research articles, reviews,

systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and perspective pieces. Contributions may present

experimental findings, clinical insights, or theoretical discussions, offering novel perspectives

and advancements in our understanding of cellular senescence in neurodegenerative

disease.

Keywords: Neurodegenerative diseases, Senescence, Telomere, Mitochondrial DNA, Chronic inflammation, Membrane fluidity, Aging, Reactive Oxygen Species, Oxidative Stress, Free radicals, Neurotoxicity, Brain damage

Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.