About this Research Topic
Alzheimer's disease (AD) progresses through a prolonged preclinical stage, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and ultimately dementia, with cognitive decline starting 20-30 years before detection. The central nervous system (CNS) manages immune responses to combat infections and injuries through localized inflammation, primarily orchestrated by microglia, the CNS's resident immune cells. Microglia respond to injury by rapidly expanding locally.
During MCI, microglial activation peaks but gradually declines, suggesting a shift towards self-tolerance, presenting self-antigens to T cells during AD's prodromal stage. However, in confirmed AD, a pro-inflammatory microglial phenotype emerges. Cerebrovascular dysfunction preceding AD neuropathology hints at the importance of vascular remodeling and angiogenesis in supporting microglial function and Aβ clearance. Peripheral monocyte recruitment via IFN-gamma signaling may enhance pro-inflammatory responses and Aβ phagocytosis. Recent research shows diverse myeloid cell origins in the CNS, suggesting a complex network in regulating Aβ aggregation. Understanding brain-infiltrating peripheral T cells and monocytes is crucial for addressing microglial deficiency and combating AD.
The goal of this Research Topic is to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of peripheral blood cells, such as T cells and monocytes, in brain repair during aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). By examining the impact of these cells on microglial activation and their potential influence on AD progression, the aim is to elucidate novel therapeutic targets and treatment strategies for AD. This Research Topic seeks to integrate findings from various disciplines, including immunology, neuroscience, and gerontology, to offer a holistic understanding of the complex interplay between the immune system and the brain in the context of aging and neurodegeneration. By fostering collaboration and discussion among researchers and clinicians, this Research Topic aims to accelerate the development of effective interventions that can improve brain health and quality of life in aging populations.
To effectively address this topic, we welcome contributions that focus on and investigate:
- The role of peripheral blood cells, such as T cells and monocytes, in brain repair during aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD)
- The mechanisms underlying the recruitment and function of these cells in the central nervous system, particularly focusing on their impact on microglial activation and AD progression
- Novel therapeutic avenues and treatments emerging from the study of these interactions
We particularly welcome original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and perspective pieces. Manuscripts elucidating interdisciplinary approaches integrating immunology, neuroscience, and gerontology are encouraged. Authors should follow the journal's guidelines for manuscript preparation and submission, ensuring that their work meets the highest standards of scientific rigor and clarity
During MCI, microglial activation peaks but gradually declines, suggesting a shift towards self-tolerance, presenting self-antigens to T cells during AD's prodromal stage. However, in confirmed AD, a pro-inflammatory microglial phenotype emerges. Cerebrovascular dysfunction preceding AD neuropathology hints at the importance of vascular remodeling and angiogenesis in supporting microglial function and Aβ clearance. Peripheral monocyte recruitment via IFN-gamma signaling may enhance pro-inflammatory responses and Aβ phagocytosis. Recent research shows diverse myeloid cell origins in the CNS, suggesting a complex network in regulating Aβ aggregation. Understanding brain-infiltrating peripheral T cells and monocytes is crucial for addressing microglial deficiency and combating AD.
The goal of this Research Topic is to provide a comprehensive overview of the role of peripheral blood cells, such as T cells and monocytes, in brain repair during aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). By examining the impact of these cells on microglial activation and their potential influence on AD progression, the aim is to elucidate novel therapeutic targets and treatment strategies for AD. This Research Topic seeks to integrate findings from various disciplines, including immunology, neuroscience, and gerontology, to offer a holistic understanding of the complex interplay between the immune system and the brain in the context of aging and neurodegeneration. By fostering collaboration and discussion among researchers and clinicians, this Research Topic aims to accelerate the development of effective interventions that can improve brain health and quality of life in aging populations.
To effectively address this topic, we welcome contributions that focus on and investigate:
- The role of peripheral blood cells, such as T cells and monocytes, in brain repair during aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD)
- The mechanisms underlying the recruitment and function of these cells in the central nervous system, particularly focusing on their impact on microglial activation and AD progression
- Novel therapeutic avenues and treatments emerging from the study of these interactions
We particularly welcome original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and perspective pieces. Manuscripts elucidating interdisciplinary approaches integrating immunology, neuroscience, and gerontology are encouraged. Authors should follow the journal's guidelines for manuscript preparation and submission, ensuring that their work meets the highest standards of scientific rigor and clarity
Keywords: Microglial activation, Brain-infiltrating monocytes, T-cell tolerance, Alzheimer's disease, Neuroinflammation/Immunomodulation.
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.
