From Immune Activation to Neurodegeneration: Understanding the Inflammatory Landscape of Parkinson's Disease
Author(s): Anastasia V. Poznyak, Mariam Bagheri Ekta, Olga Nikolaevna Maltseva, Elizaveta Romanovna Korchagina, Aleksandra Sergeevna Utkina and Alexander N. Orekhov
Abstract
Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a complex neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the progressive loss of dopaminergic neurons in the nigrostriatal pathway, leading to both motor and non-motor symptoms. Recent insights have expanded our understanding of PD beyond its classical motor presentations, highlighting the significant role of neuroinflammation in its pathogenesis and progression. This review explores the multifaceted relationship between neuroinflammatory processes, the immune response, and the onset of PD. It discusses the involvement of both innate and adaptive immunity specifically the activation of microglia and the role of T and B cells in the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Additionally, we examine how genetic predispositions, environmental factors, and viral infections may contribute to inflammation and ultimately neurodegeneration. We delve into the implications of chronic inflammation, emphasizing its potential as a therapeutic target and a source of biomarkers for early diagnosis and progression monitoring. Recent therapeutic approaches, including immunotherapies targeting α-synuclein, present promising avenues for intervention. Overall, this review underscores the intricate interplay between neuroinflammation and the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease, advocating for a deeper exploration of inflammatory pathways as both contributors to and markers of disease progression.