Book Description
Synapses are complex, highly specialized biological structures. Therefore, even slight functional disturbance can lead to disruptive brain disorders. Dysfunction of these structures is associated with a variety of aging-related neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Most synaptopathies compromise complex signaling pathways by progressively affecting the synaptic protein repertoire. Currently, the treatment of most of these pathologies focuses on the mitigation of symptoms; in consequence, further efforts need to be made to elucidate the common molecular culprit and cellular mechanisms underlying the cause of these severe pathologies to serve as therapeutic targets for clinical applications. In this Research Topic, we aim to discuss synaptic dysfunction as a causal factor for aging-related neurodegenerative diseases. Despite the recent technological advances that allow identifying the individual synaptic components affected in these synaptic pathologies, we know little about how they impact the synaptic function. To promote the discussion around the molecular and functional connection, we primarily welcome original research, review, and perspective articles emphasizing the relationship between synaptic function and the proteins or mechanisms affected.
