Imagine the body as a vibrant city with different neighborhoods. Sometimes, there can be troublemakers causing a ruckus in certain areas. Inflammation is like a rowdy protest happening in the central nervous system, and it turns out that this unruly behavior could be linked to both chronic vascular disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Researchers have been investigating this possible connection, exploring the processes of neuroinflammation within the brain. They have found that there are some similarities between neuroinflammation seen in diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and neuroinflammation caused by transient ischemia (a disruption in blood flow to the brain). However, there are also notable differences in these two types of neuroinflammation. The article also highlights the relationship between systemic inflammation throughout the body and neuroinflammation specifically within the brain. Interestingly, there is still much we don’t know about how atherosclerosis (the build-up of plaque in arteries) contributes to neuroinflammation and its impact on neurodegenerative diseases. Further research in this area could shed light on important connections and potential therapeutic strategies.
Various age-related diseases involve systemic inflammation, i.e. a stereotyped series of acute immune system responses, and aging itself is commonly associated with low-grade inflammation or inflamm’aging. Neuroinflammation is defined as inflammation-like processes inside the central nervous system, which this review discusses as a possible link between cardiovascular disease-related chronic inflammation and neurodegenerative diseases. To this aim, neuroinflammation mechanisms are first summarized, encompassing the cellular effectors and the molecular mediators. A comparative survey of the best-known physiological contexts of neuroinflammation (neurodegenerative diseases and transient ischemia) reveals some common features such as microglia activation. The recently published transcriptomic characterizations of microglia have pointed a marker core signature among neurodegenerative diseases, but also unraveled the discrepancies with neuroinflammations related with acute diseases of vascular origin. We next review the links between systemic inflammation and neuroinflammation, beginning with molecular features of respective pro-inflammatory cells, i.e. macrophages and microglia. Finally, we point out a gap of knowledge concerning the atherosclerosis-related neuroinflammation, which is for the most surprising given that atherosclerosis is established as a major risk factor for neurodegenerative diseases.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.