Neurodegenerative disorders present one of the most challenging fronts in modern medicine, with diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease impacting millions globally. These conditions are characterized by the progressive degeneration and death of nerve cells, which is a complex interplay of genetic, oxidative, and inflammatory factors. The conventional therapeutic strategies are often inadequate, mainly due to their inability to target multiple pathological pathways simultaneously. As such, there is a critical need for innovative approaches that address these limitations effectively. In addition to central nervous system disorders, neurodegenerative conditions affecting the retina, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and retinitis pigmentosa (RP), represent significant challenges. These retinal neurodegenerations share common pathological mechanisms with other neurodegenerative diseases, including oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, and chronic inflammation. The retina, being an extension of the central nervous system, offers a unique model to study neurodegeneration and test innovative therapeutic approaches. Nutraceuticals, such as lutein and zeaxanthin, have shown promise in supporting retinal health by reducing oxidative damage. Biotechnological interventions, including gene therapies and RNA-based strategies, are also emerging as powerful tools to preserve vision and counteract retinal cell loss.
This Research Topic aims to explore two promising frontiers in the battle against neurodegenerative diseases: nutraceuticals and biotechnological interventions. Recent advancements suggest that nutraceuticals could exert neuroprotective effects by modulating oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby improving neuronal survival. Concurrently, biotechnological approaches, including deploying novel non-coding RNAs and monoclonal antibodies, offer unprecedented potential to regulate key cell survival and death processes. By focusing on these strategies, this topic seeks to generate a shift from symptom management to modifying the disease process itself. The scope of this Research Topic is therefore set to delineate a clear, targeted discussion on the specific mechanisms through which nutraceutical and biotechnological strategies can alter the course of neurodegenerative diseases, including those affecting the retina. Themes for submission include:
• Mechanism insights into how nutraceuticals may act on retinal neurodegeneration by modulating epigenetic pathways. • The potential of biotechnological tools such as non-coding RNAs in neuroprotection • Synergistic effects of combining nutraceutical and biotechnological approaches. • Case studies on targeted interventions in specific neurodegenerative disorders, including retinal neurodegenerations.
Theoretical reviews on the future of disease-modifying therapies in neurology and ophthalmology. Contributions in the form of Original Research and Review articles that push the boundaries of our current understanding and propose new perspectives on therapeutic strategies are highly encouraged.
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