Neurovirus, Neurocancer, and the Promising Role of Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras in Aging

As the global population ages, the importance of understanding neurological disorders increases exponentially. Two significant threats in this area, neuroviruses and neurocancer, disproportionately affect older demographics. Proteolysis Targeting Chimeras (PROTACs), are groundbreaking molecules that have the potential to redefine how we approach disease treatment. PROTACs are unique molecules designed to target specific proteins for degradation. They function by linking a target protein to a ubiquitin ligase, leading to the protein's tagging and subsequent degradation by the proteasome. This targeted protein degradation offers a precision tool in disease intervention, unlike traditional therapies that merely inhibit proteins. Neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease, which have been linked to viral infections, represent some of the most devastating impacts of neuroviruses on the elderly. These diseases, rooted in protein misfolding and accumulation, underscore the urgency of understanding the interaction of neuroviruses and aging. On the other hand, glioblastoma, a severe form of brain cancer, exemplifies the insidious nature of neurocancers in the elderly. Its aggressive progression and the challenges it poses in diagnosis and treatment emphasize the need for innovative therapeutic interventions. Our exploration embarks with an analysis of Neuroviruses and Aging, diving into common neuroviruses in the elderly, such as those potentially contributing to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and examining the mechanisms through which aging exacerbates these afflictions. Shifting focus, we spotlight Neurocancer in the Elderly, elucidating the complexities of managing cancers like glioblastoma in geriatric populations.

Central to our discussions is The Science of PROTACs, where we demystify these transformative molecules. Delving into their potential, we discuss PROTACs against Neuroviruses, highlighting their relevance in conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and explore the role of PROTACs in Battling Neurocancer. Finally, the Ethical and Practical Implications of using PROTACs, especially in elderly patients, will be deliberated upon, setting the stage for balanced and informed discourse.

We welcome submissions spanning original research articles, comprehensive reviews, case studies, and opinion pieces. Unique perspectives, especially those touching upon ethical, societal, or clinical facets, are highly valued.

This Research Topic is crafted for a diverse readership, from neurologists and oncologists to geriatricians and bioethicists. Our interdisciplinary approach aims to stimulate collaboration, propel research, and pave the way for novel treatments. Through this amalgamation of knowledge, our aspiration extends beyond mere information dissemination to reshaping patient care concerning aging and neurological disorders.

The challenges posed by neurological disorders in aging are multifaceted and demand inventive solutions. This Research Topic, weaving together the threads of neuroviruses, neurocancer, and PROTACs, aspires to illuminate the path for all stakeholders, pushing the boundaries of informed, effective, and empathetic care.

Keywords: PROTACs, Neurovirus, Cancer, Infections, MD simulation, Infection dynamics, Alzheimer's Disease, Parkinson's Disease

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