What is it about?
Neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and ALS slowly damage the brain and nervous system, often starting years before symptoms appear. This review explains how small molecules called microRNAs, which help control gene activity, can be used as early warning signals for these diseases. We also show how the aging process itself changes the brain’s structure and function, making it more vulnerable to these conditions. A special focus is placed on how microRNAs interact with proteins through processes called post-translational modifications—tiny chemical changes that can affect how proteins work or misfold, which is a hallmark of many brain diseases. By studying these connections, scientists hope to develop simple blood tests that could spot neurodegenerative diseases much earlier, leading to better treatment and care for aging populations.
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Why is it important?
As people live longer, age-related brain diseases are becoming more common and costly. Detecting these diseases early is vital, but current tests are often invasive or miss the disease’s early stages. Our review is timely and unique because it brings together new research on how microRNAs and post-translational modifications—both of which change as we age—can be used to diagnose neurodegenerative diseases sooner and more accurately. Understanding these molecular changes not only helps in early detection but also opens up new possibilities for targeted therapies. By highlighting the links between aging, microRNAs, and protein modifications, this article paves the way for innovative diagnostic tools that could transform care for millions worldwide.
Perspectives
As a researcher, I am excited by the potential of microRNA-based diagnostics to revolutionize how we detect and manage neurodegenerative diseases. The ability to identify these conditions before symptoms appear could lead to earlier interventions, better patient outcomes, and more efficient use of healthcare resources. Our review underscores the importance of continued research into the molecular mechanisms of aging and neurodegeneration, as these insights could pave the way for both improved diagnostics and novel therapies. I hope this work inspires further collaboration across disciplines to accelerate the translation of these findings into clinical practice.
Hafiz Muhammad Husnain Azam
Brandenburgische Technische Universitat Cottbus-Senftenberg
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: MicroRNA biomarkers as next-generation diagnostic tools for neurodegenerative diseases: a comprehensive review, Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience, May 2024, Frontiers,
DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2024.1386735.
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