Aging, a complex biological process, has significant effects on the central nervous system, which often contribute to the development of neurodegenerative conditions. Neuroinflammation, characterized by chronic, low-grade inflammation within the CNS, is recognized as a key factor in these age-related changes. Recent research emphasizes sex-specific differences in the onset, progression, and outcomes of neuroinflammatory processes, which emerge from a complex interplay of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors resulting in distinct immune and CNS responses in males and females. For instance, the prevalence and severity of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, which affects more women, and Parkinson's, more common in men, demonstrate these sex-specific mechanisms. Understanding these mechanisms is critical, especially given the inconsistencies between findings in rodent models and human studies, and the potential impact on cognitive decline associated with aging.
This Research Topic aims to explore the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying sex-specific neuroinflammation during aging. By exploring how these differences influence the pathogenesis and progression of neurological disorders, researchers can better address the unique needs of aging populations, ultimately improving outcomes for age-related neurological disorders. This area of research holds promise for advancing personalized medicine approaches in the treatment and prevention of age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
This Research Topic will collect recent advancements and ongoing studies focused on the molecular mechanisms governing sex-specific neuroinflammation and related disorders, gathering both basic science and clinical research, offering comprehensive insights to guide medical professionals in mitigating neuroinflammation-related neurological and neurodegenerative diseases, with an emphasis on sex differences.
We invite articles that explore, but are not limited to, the following topics:
1. The role of sex as a biological variable in neuroinflammation during aging.
2. Sex-specific modulation of immune metabolism and its impact on cognitive function, including:
i. Innate and neural immune mechanisms
ii. Adaptive immune and neural immune mechanisms
iii. Neurovascular integrity
iv. Glymphatic and meningeal lymphatic system
v. Mitochondrial homeostasis and cellular metabolism
3. The effect of sex hormones on neuroinflammatory responses.
4. The effect of sex on the microbiota and gut-brain axis-mediated regulation of neuroinflammation.
5. The effect of sex on early life inflammation and its relationship to late-life neurodegeneration.
Dr Celia Giulietta Fernandez is employed by Recursion Pharmaceuticals.
Keywords: Sex, hormone, microglia, neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, metabolism
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.
