Scientific Sessions

Neurodegenerative disorders are a group of progressive conditions that affect the structure and function of the nervous system, leading to a gradual decline in cognitive and motor abilities. These disorders are primarily caused by the progressive loss of neurons in specific regions of the brain and spinal cord, resulting in impaired communication between nerve cells. Common examples include Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The exact causes of these conditions vary, but they often involve genetic mutations, accumulation of misfolded proteins, mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. Since neurons have limited capacity for regeneration, the damage caused by these conditions is largely irreversible, making them some of the most challenging diseases to treat in modern medicine.

The impact of neurodegenerative disorders extends beyond the affected individual, placing a significant burden on families, caregivers, and healthcare systems. Patients often experience progressive memory loss, difficulty with movement, speech impairments, mood changes, and loss of independence, severely affecting quality of life. While current treatments mainly focus on symptom management and improving daily functioning, ongoing research is exploring disease-modifying therapies, including stem cell therapy, gene editing, neuroprotective drugs, and lifestyle interventions. Early diagnosis, supported by advanced imaging and biomarkers, is also becoming crucial for slowing disease progression. As life expectancy continues to rise globally, the prevalence of neurodegenerative disorders is expected to increase, emphasizing the urgent need for innovative treatments and preventive strategies to reduce their devastating impact on individuals and society.