About this Research Topic
This Research Topic invites contributions that explore the complex relationship between TBI and neurodegenerative diseases, elucidating the mechanisms responsible for accelerating or exacerbating neurodegenerative processes following TBI. It welcomes research from diverse disciplines, including neuroepidemiology, neuroscience, neurology, psychiatry, neuropathology, molecular biology, and clinical medicine. Studies utilizing animal models, human samples, imaging techniques, and clinical investigations are encouraged to shed light on the molecular and cellular mechanisms driving this association.
Objectives:
1. Understand the molecular and cellular changes following TBI that contribute to accelerated or enhanced neurodegenerative processes: TBI triggers a cascade of complex cellular and molecular events that can influence the onset or progression of neurodegeneration. This Research Topic calls for studies investigating the molecular and cellular changes, including neuroinflammation, protein misfolding, synaptic dysfunction, and axonal degeneration, that occur following TBI and their impact on neurodegenerative processes.
2. Identify biomarkers for the early detection and monitoring of TBI-associated neurodegeneration: Early identification and monitoring of neurodegenerative processes following TBI can lead to timely intervention and improved patient outcomes. This Research Topic invites studies that focus on identifying and validating biomarkers indicative of accelerated or enhanced neurodegenerative processes after TBI. Identification of reliable biomarkers will aid in early diagnosis, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating potential therapeutic interventions.
3. Investigate potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate TBI-induced neurodegeneration: Understanding the mechanisms driving TBI-associated neurodegeneration opens avenues for therapeutic interventions. This Research Topic welcomes studies exploring therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing or mitigating the accelerated or enhanced neurodegenerative processes following TBI. Investigations targeting inflammation, oxidative stress, proteinopathies, synaptic dysfunction, and neuroregeneration provide potential therapeutic avenues for intervention.
4. Translational research and clinical applications: Bridging the gap between laboratory findings and clinical practice is crucial for the development of effective interventions. This Research Topic calls for studies that translate findings from experimental models to clinical settings. Investigations correlating experimental findings with clinical data, longitudinal studies on TBI patients, and the development of innovative imaging techniques can enhance our understanding of the relevance of TBI-induced mechanisms in human neurodegenerative diseases.
Understanding the mechanisms underpinning the association between TBI and accelerated or enhanced neurodegenerative processes is crucial for developing effective interventions. By investigating the molecular, cellular, and biochemical changes following TBI, identifying biomarkers, and exploring therapeutic strategies, researchers can pave the way for targeted interventions to prevent or mitigate TBI-induced neurodegeneration. Continued interdisciplinary research and collaboration between basic scientists, clinicians, and imaging specialists will be essential in advancing our knowledge and improving outcomes for individuals who have experienced TBI and are at an increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
Keywords: blast-injury, secondary-TBI mechanisms, axonal traumatic damage, neuroinflammation, chronic traumatic encephalopathy, behavioral changes., Head trauma, Concussion, Neurocognitive disorder, Biomarkers, Neuroimaging, Therapeutic strategy, Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease
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.