The domain of neuroimaging has recently seen significant advancements in the study of neurodegenerative Parkinsonian disorders. Despite these advances, accurately diagnosing neurodegenerative Parkinsonian conditions like PD or other Parkinsonian syndromes like progressive supranuclear palsy or multisystem atrophy remains a formidable challenge, primarily due to the overlap in clinical symptoms among the disorders. Recent investigations have spotlighted MRI biomarkers, such as unique imaging patterns, as important tools for improved diagnostic precision. However, the pathogenesis of these disorders continues to be a major challenge, creating a pressing need for more accurate diagnostic methodologies and innovative treatment strategies. Current research is expanding into the association between advanced imaging biomarkers, genetic susceptibilities, environmental influences, and the pathology associated with proteins like alpha-synuclein (PD, MSA) or tau (PSP), with the goal to refine clinical criteria and understand the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative Parkinsonian diseases.

This Research Topic aims to examine the application of advanced (computerized) neuroimaging in understanding the pathophysiology, overcoming diagnostic challenges, and exploring therapeutic interventions in neurodegenerative Parkinsonian disorders. The main goal is to foster innovation in utilizing imaging biomarkers for early detection, unravel genetic and environmental influences, and initiate new therapeutic avenues that improve patient outcomes. Specific research questions may include the potential of imaging biomarkers in understanding the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative Parkinsonian disorders (or even presymptomatic conditions like REM sleep behavioral disorder), the interpretation of neuroimaging results, and the integration of imaging in therapeutic strategies.

To gather further insights into the neuroimaging applications for neurodegenerative Parkinsonian disorders, we welcome submissions across a diverse range of manuscript types supported by the journal—including Original Research, Brief Research Reports, Perspectives, Protocols, Mini-Reviews, and more—exploring, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Breakthroughs in neuroimaging technologies for Parkinsonian disorders
- Discovery and validation of innovative imaging biomarkers
- Strategies for improving differential diagnosis of Parkinsonian syndromes using various imaging techniques and refinement of diagnostic protocols and criteria
- Insights into the progression and pathology of neurodegenerative Parkinsonism
- Elucidating the in vivo assessment of neuropathological concepts through neuroimaging modalities
- Neuroimaging correlates with genetic and environmental factors impacting the disease onset and progression
- Using neuroimaging as surrogate markers to evaluate and advance therapeutic strategies
- Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies leveraging neuroimaging for better disease characterization
- Computational approaches in processing and interpreting neuroimaging data

Articles accepted after peer review will be published and appear online as soon as approved for publication.

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Applied Neuroimaging Biomarkers for Neurodegenerative Parkinsonian Disorders