Project Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Huntington's, pose a significant global health challenge, with an increasing prevalence and a devastating impact on individuals, families, and healthcare systems. These debilitating conditions are characterized by the progressive degeneration of neuronal cells, leading to cognitive decline, motor impairment, and ultimately, a reduced quality of life for those affected. Despite extensive research and ongoing efforts, the development of effective treatments has remained a formidable task, underscoring the urgent need for innovative approaches to address this complex and multifaceted problem. This project aims to explore novel therapeutic strategies and interventions that could potentially alter the course of neurodegenerative diseases, offering new hope for patients and their caregivers. By leveraging cutting-edge scientific advancements, the project will investigate a multitude of promising avenues, including the exploration of novel drug targets, the development of innovative drug delivery systems, and the investigation of emerging regenerative medicine approaches. One key focus of the project will be the identification and validation of novel molecular targets that could serve as points of intervention in the pathological cascades underlying neurodegenerative diseases. Through a comprehensive analysis of disease-specific pathways and the examination of emerging biomarkers, the project will seek to uncover novel therapeutic targets that could lead to the development of more effective and targeted treatments. This approach aims to address the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration, rather than solely managing the symptoms, with the ultimate goal of slowing or halting disease progression. In parallel, the project will explore innovative drug delivery methods to improve the bioavailability and efficacy of therapeutic agents. The blood-brain barrier, which serves as a protective shield for the central nervous system, often poses a significant challenge for the delivery of therapeutic compounds. The project will investigate novel strategies, such as nanoparticle-based systems, targeted delivery mechanisms, and alternative administration routes, to overcome this obstacle and enhance the targeted delivery of therapeutic compounds to the affected regions of the brain. Furthermore, the project will delve into the promising field of regenerative medicine, exploring the potential of stem cell-based therapies and the stimulation of endogenous neuronal repair mechanisms. By harnessing the inherent regenerative capacity of the nervous system, the project aims to develop novel interventions that could potentially restore neuronal function and mitigate the devastating consequences of neurodegenerative diseases. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the project will bring together experts from diverse fields, including neuroscience, pharmacology, bioengineering, and clinical medicine, to collaborate and synergize their expertise. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and leveraging the latest scientific advancements, the project aspires to make significant strides in the quest for effective treatments for neurodegenerative diseases, ultimately improving the lives of those affected and their loved ones.

Project Overview