The cytoskeleton plays a vital role in maintaining cellular structure and function, with its dynamics and associated morphological features critically influencing numerous physiological processes. Atypical cytoskeletal dynamics and structures are hallmark features of several neurodevelopmental and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and Huntington’s disease. Understanding cytoskeletal dysregulation and its impacts, especially within neural contexts, is crucial for advancing both our fundamental and applied knowledge in neuroscience.

The primary aim of this Research Topic is to elucidate the impacts of cytoskeletal dysregulation on dendritic spinogenesis, which is increasingly recognized as a critical factor in neurodegenerative diseases. This effort seeks to deepen our understanding of the mechanisms by which cytoskeletal anomalies contribute to neurodegeneration and synaptic dysfunction. Highlighting the involvement of actin-associated proteins such as cofilin, profilin, VASP, Arp2/3, drebrin, spectrin, actinin, and cortactin, we hope to foster innovative research that can guide future therapeutic strategies targeting cytoskeletal elements. Through this collection, we aim to compile cutting-edge studies that enhance our knowledge of how aberrant cytoskeletal dynamics affect dendritic spines and neuronal communication, ultimately driving pathogenesis in neurodegenerative diseases.

To achieve the goals of this Research Topic, we invite submissions that address (but not limited to) the following themes:

-The role of cytoskeletal proteins in the formation and maintenance of dendritic spines.
-Mechanisms by which cytoskeletal dysregulation contributes to synaptic dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases.
-Comparative analyses of cytoskeletal dynamics in healthy versus diseased neurons.
-Novel therapeutic strategies aimed at targeting cytoskeletal anomalies in neurodegeneration.
-Alterations in cytoskeletal morphologies due to cellular stress and subsequent impacts on spinogenesis

We welcome original research articles, review articles, hypothesis and theory papers, and perspectives that provide comprehensive insights into the interplay between cytoskeletal dynamics and dendritic spine pathology in neurodegenerative conditions.

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Impacts of cytoskeletal dysregulation on spinogenesis

Topic Coordinator