Neuroinflammation plays a critical role in the progression of neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Activated glial cells release pro-inflammatory cytokines that disrupt neuronal function and impair synaptic plasticity, essential for learning and memory. Elevated cytokines like IL-1β and TNF-α can inhibit long-term potentiation (LTP), a key mechanism for synaptic strengthening. The relationship between neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity differs across disorders. In AD, inflammation worsens amyloid-beta plaque formation, while in PD, it accelerates dopaminergic neuron degeneration. In TBI, neuroinflammation exacerbates neuronal damage and impedes recovery. Despite recognition of these interactions, the precise molecular mechanisms remain unclear.

The primary goal of this special issue is to explore the intricate relationship between neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity across various neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), traumatic brain injury (TBI). By investigating the molecular mechanisms that link neuroinflammation to synaptic dysfunction, we aim to elucidate how inflammatory processes affect neuronal health and resilience. We also seek to highlight the role of brain immune cells, such as microglia, in mediating these interactions and their impact on cognitive and motor functions. Ultimately, the insights gained from this research could inform the development of targeted therapeutic strategies to restore synaptic integrity and improve outcomes for patients suffering from these debilitating conditions. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, we aspire to advance our understanding of neuroinflammation’s role in neurodegeneration and facilitate the identification of novel treatment avenues.

This Research Topic invites contributions that explore the relationship between neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity in the context of neurological disorders, including but not limited to Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI). We welcome original research articles, comprehensive reviews, and meta-analyses that address the following topics:

- Molecular Mechanisms: Investigate the signaling pathways and molecular interactions that link neuroinflammation to synaptic dysfunction in neurological disorders.

- Role of Glial Cells: Explore the contributions of microglia and astrocytes in mediating neuroinflammation and their impact on neuronal health and synaptic plasticity.

- Neurodegenerative Pathways: Examine how chronic inflammation influences neurodegenerative processes and affects cognitive and motor functions in AD and PD, as well as following TBI.

- Therapeutic Approaches: Discuss potential interventions aimed at mitigating neuroinflammation and restoring synaptic health, with a focus on AD, PD, and TBI.

Are you interested in contributing a manuscript to this Research Topic?

Neuroinflammation and synaptic plasticity: unraveling the complex interplay in neurological disorders