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Neurodegenerative disorders are a group of chronic, progressive diseases that involve the gradual loss of structure or function of neurons (nerve cells), including their death. Since neurons typically do not regenerate, damage to them can lead to permanent and often worsening impairments in movement, cognition, behaviour, and other neurological function.
Neuro degenerative diseases include:
Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder that primarily affects memory, thinking, and behavior. It is the most common cause of dementia, accounting for 60–80% of all dementia cases. The disease gradually destroys brain cells and connections, leading to cognitive decline and loss of independence.
Parkinson’s Disease Parkinson’s Disease (PD) is a chronic, progressive neurodegenerative disorder primarily affecting movement control. It results from the gradual loss of dopaminergic neurons in specific brain regions and is characterized by motor symptoms (tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia) and non-motor symptoms (depression, sleep disorders, cognitive changes).
ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects motor neurons—the nerve cells responsible for controlling voluntary muscles. As these neurons degenerate, patients experience muscle weakness, paralysis, and eventually respiratory failure.
Huntington’s Disease is a genetic neurodegenerative disorder caused by a mutation in the HTT gene. It leads to progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain, affecting movement, cognition, and behavior. Symptoms typically appear between ages 30 and 50 and worsen over time.
Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) is a group of progressive neurodegenerative disorders primarily affecting the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. It leads to changes in behavior, personality, language, and motor function, usually beginning between ages 45 and 65.

Neuroinflammation refers to the inflammatory response within the central nervous system (CNS), often involving activation of microglia and astrocytes. When the immune system mistakenly attacks components of the CNS, this leads to autoimmune neurological disorders. These conditions can cause significant damage to brain and spinal cord tissues, impacting function and quality of life.
Multiple Sclerosis (MS): Advances in Immunomodulation: MS is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by immune-mediated damage to myelin, the protective sheath around nerve fibers. Recent advances focus on immunomodulatory therapies that suppress or modulate the immune response to reduce relapses and slow disease progression. Examples include monoclonal antibodies (e.g., ocrelizumab), oral agents (e.g., fingolimod), and newer drugs targeting specific immune pathways. Personalized treatment plans and early intervention are improving patient outcomes.
Autoimmune Encephalitis: Diagnostic Criteria: Autoimmune encephalitis is inflammation of the brain caused by antibodies targeting neuronal cell surface or synaptic proteins. Diagnosis relies on a combination of clinical symptoms (e.g., memory loss, seizures, psychiatric symptoms), MRI and EEG findings, and detection of specific autoantibodies in serum or cerebrospinal fluid.Early diagnosis is critical as immunotherapy (steroids, IVIG, plasma exchange) can significantly improve recovery.
Gut-Brain Axis and Inflammatory Regulation : The gut-brain axis is the bidirectional communication network between the gastrointestinal tract and the CNS, involving neural, hormonal, and immune pathways. Gut microbiota influence systemic and brain inflammation by modulating immune responses and producing neuroactive compounds. Dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) has been linked to neuroinflammatory and autoimmune disorders such as MS, Parkinson’s disease, and depression. Targeting the gut microbiome through diet, probiotics, or fecal transplants is an emerging area to regulate inflammation and potentially treat neurological diseases

Cerebrovascular disorders are conditions that affect the brain’s blood vessels, causing damage from blocked or burst vessels. Common examples include ischemic stroke, where a blood clot blocks an artery, and hemorrhagic stroke, caused by bleeding from a ruptured vessel. Transient ischemic attacks (TIAs) are brief blockages with temporary stroke-like symptoms. Aneurysms are weakened, ballooned vessels that risk bursting. Vascular dementia results from ongoing reduced blood flow or multiple small strokes, leading to memory and thinking problems. Early diagnosis and treatment are vital to prevent serious brain damage.

Brain cancer is a condition where malignant (cancerous) cells develop within the brain tissue, forming a tumor that disrupts normal brain functions such as muscle control, sensation, memory, and other bodily processes. Tumors made up of cancer cells are called malignant tumors, while those primarily consisting of noncancerous cells are known as benign tumors. Tumors that originate directly in the brain are called primary brain tumors, whereas those that spread to the brain from other parts of the body are referred to as metastatic or secondary brain tumors. Hereditary genetic conditions, like neurofibromatosis

Neuroimmunology is a field combining neuroscience, the study of the nervous system, and immunology, the study of the immune system. Neuroimmunologists seek to better understand the interactions of these two complex systems during development, homeostasis, and response to injuries. A long-term goal of this rapidly developing research area is to further develop our understanding of the pathology of certain neurological diseases, some of which have no clear etiology. Neuroimmunology contributes to development of new pharmacological treatments for several neurological conditions. Many types of interactions involve both the nervous and immune systems including the physiological functioning of the two systems in health and disease, malfunction of either and or both systems that leads to disorders, and the physical, chemical, and environmental stressors that affect the two systems on a daily basis.

Neurosurgery being a practical procedure for treating brain diseases and injuries has seen profound, unending advances in terms of the tools and technology used. These advances promise to enhance the accuracy of diagnosis and intraoperative procedures. Neurosurgery has come a long way from being regarded as one of the most complex procedures in the medical field to advances in simulation technology where neurosurgeons will be able to practice a surgical procedure or augment the actual surgery.

Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) is a sudden injury to the brain caused by a blow, jolt, or impact to the head. It commonly results from car accidents, falls, sports injuries, or physical assaults. TBI can range in severity from mild concussions to serious injuries that cause lasting or permanent brain damage. In severe cases, it may require emergency medical care, including surgery and intensive treatment. Survivors often experience long-term challenges affecting their physical abilities, mental function, emotions, and behavior. Recovery frequently involves rehabilitation to help patients regain and relearn essential skills.

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) plays a crucial role in protecting the brain and spinal cord. However, CSF leaks can occur when there is an abnormal connection between the brain’s protective covering and the nasal cavity. These leaks may happen spontaneously or result from head trauma, previous nasal or sinus surgeries, or spinal procedures. When caused by surgery or injury, complications such as infections can arise, potentially leading to meningitis or serious conditions like brain swelling. Most CSF leaks are associated with surgical procedures or lumbar punctures. This session focuses on the neurological complications that arise from CSF leaks and their underlying causes.

Mental health refers to our emotional, psychological, and social well-being, influencing how we think, feel, and behave. It plays a vital role in managing stress, building relationships, making decisions, and maintaining overall productivity. Conditions like anxiety and depression can significantly disrupt daily functioning and require appropriate support and treatment. Promoting awareness and reducing stigma are essential to encourage individuals to seek help without hesitation. Practices such as regular exercise, mindfulness, and healthy lifestyle choices can support mental well-being. Open conversations about mental health foster resilience and emphasize its importance in achieving overall health and life balance

Neuroinfectious diseases are conditions where infections affect the brain and nervous system. Meningitis involves inflammation of the brain’s protective membranes, often due to bacteria or viruses, and causes symptoms like fever and neck stiffness. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain itself, usually viral, leading to seizures and confusion. Brain abscesses are pus-filled infections that increase pressure in the brain and may require surgery. Neurocysticercosis, from a tapeworm infection, and toxoplasmosis, often seen in people with weak immune systems, both cause seizures and are treated with antiparasitic or antibiotic medications. HAND refers to cognitive issues caused by HIV and is managed with antiretroviral therapy. PML, a rare brain disease from JC virus reactivation in immunocompromised patients, leads to neurological decline and has no specific cure beyond restoring immune function.

Neuropharmacology is the branch of neuroscience that examines how drugs influence the nervous system and affect behavior.
It is broadly divided into two interconnected subfields: behavioral neuropharmacology and molecular neuropharmacology.
Behavioral neuropharmacology explores the effects of drugs on human behavior, particularly in relation to addiction and drug dependence, forming the basis of neuropsychopharmacology. Molecular neuropharmacology, on the other hand, focuses on the interactions between neurons and various neurochemical agents, aiming to develop therapeutic drugs that enhance neurological function. Both areas investigate the complex interplay of neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, neurohormones, neuromodulators, enzymes, second messengers, co-transporters, ion channels, and receptor proteins in the central and peripheral nervous systems. Through these studies, researchers are advancing treatments for a wide range of neurological disorders, including chronic pain and neurodegenerative diseases.

Pediatric neurology is a specialized field that combines aspects of both neurology and pediatrics. It focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of disorders affecting the nervous system in infants, children, and adolescents. This includes conditions involving the central and peripheral nervous systems, the autonomic and somatic nervous systems, as well as related structures such as blood vessels, muscles, and other effector tissues. Pediatric neurologists are medical professionals trained to manage a wide range of neurological conditions in children, including epilepsy, developmental delays, neuromuscular disorders, and brain injuries.

Mental Retardation Mental retardation, is characterized by below-average intelligence or mental ability and a lack of skills necessary for day-to-day living. People with intellectual disabilities can and do learn new skills, but they learn them more slowly. There are varying degrees of intellectual disability, from mild to profound and maximize independence. The goal is to help patients regain as much function as possible and improve their quality of life.

Neurogenetics and Epigenetics are fields that explore how genes and gene regulation affect the nervous system. Neurogenetics studies how inherited genetic variations influence the development, function, and disorders of the brain and nerves. It helps identify the genetic causes of neurological diseases like Huntington’s, Alzheimer’s, and some forms of epilepsy. Epigenetics, on the other hand, focuses on how gene activity is controlled by environmental factors without changing the DNA sequence itself—through mechanisms like DNA methylation or histone modification. These epigenetic changes can impact brain function and may contribute to neurological disorders. Together, neurogenetics and epigenetics provide insights into the complex interactions between genes and the environment in brain health and disease, opening pathways for personalized treatments.

Neuroimaging and Diagnostics involve the use of advanced imaging techniques to visualize the structure and function of the nervous system, aiding in the diagnosis and management of brain and spinal cord disorders. Common neuroimaging tools include MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography), PET (Positron Emission Tomography), and EEG (Electroencephalography). These techniques help detect abnormalities such as tumors, strokes, inflammation, or degenerative diseases, often before symptoms become severe. Neuroimaging plays a critical role in guiding treatment decisions, monitoring disease progression, and evaluating the effectiveness of therapies. Together with clinical assessments and laboratory tests, these diagnostic tools provide a comprehensive understanding of neurological conditions.

Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCIs) are systems that enable direct communication between the brain and external devices. By detecting and interpreting brain signals, BCIs allow users to control computers, prosthetic limbs, or other machines without using muscles. This technology is especially valuable for individuals with paralysis, spinal cord injuries, or neurological disorders, helping them regain communication and movement abilities. BCIs work by capturing electrical activity from the brain—using sensors placed on the scalp or implanted in the brain—and translating these signals into commands. Researchers are continually improving BCIs to make them faster, more accurate, and easier to use, opening new possibilities in medicine, rehabilitation, and even gaming or virtual reality.