Synaptic dysfunction in Metabolic disorder

Synaptic dysfunction stands at the forefront of neurological consequences stemming from metabolic disorders, intricately linked to the brain's degraded ability to facilitate neuron-to-neuron communication. Metabolic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome catalyze a series of biological disruptions including systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and altered lipid metabolism, each contributing to synaptic impairment. Particularly susceptible are crucial brain areas like the hippocampus, cortex, and hypothalamus, which are fundamental to memory and mood regulation. The association of synaptic dysfunction with cognitive impairments and mood disorders is frequently recorded in individuals with metabolic disorders. Chronic conditions like persistently high blood sugar catalyze oxidative stress and inflammatory responses that damage synaptic proteins and receptors, essential for neuronal communication, thus hampering cognitive and emotional functions.

This Research Topic aims to delve into the complex mechanisms that link metabolic disorders with synaptic dysfunction, exploring the resultant cognitive and emotional repercussions. It seeks to answer critical questions about the pathophysiological processes that impair neural communication in such disorders and tests hypotheses related to the efficacy of new therapeutic interventions designed to restore synaptic functionality.

To deepen our understanding of this field, this topic will focus on examining the impact of metabolic disorders on synaptic structure and function. We welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

- Mechanisms of insulin resistance and its effects on synaptic health

- Role of systemic inflammation in synaptic dysfunction

- Impact of altered lipid metabolism on neuronal communication

- Emerging therapeutic strategies for reversing synaptic impairment

- Long-term consequences of synaptic dysfunction on cognitive and emotional health

This Research Topic unites researchers to contribute to evolving discussions and propose innovative studies to push the boundaries of what is currently known about synaptic responses in metabolic disorders.

Topic Editor Dr Mayank Gautam is the the co-founder of NociHeal Therapeutics. The other Topic Editors declare no competing interests with regard to the Research Topic subject.