Reactive antibodies against brain antigens as serological biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases

Abstract

The aging of the population, attributed to increased life expectancy, coincides with a rise in the prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. The symptoms of these disorders, such as motor disturbances and cognitive impairment, occur only after significant neurological damage, greatly diminishing the effectiveness of treatments. Consequently, achieving early diagnosis of neurodegenerative diseases stands as a paramount global health challenge. These conditions are characterized by the progressive loss of specific neuronal groups in the nervous system, resulting in dysfunction and eventual cell death in the brain. Although the exact cause of neuronal degeneration remains largely unknown, recent studies have revealed the significant involvement of the immune system in the pathogenesis of these diseases. Notably, the identification of reactive antibodies targeting specific antigens has highlighted a close association between immune mechanisms and the neurodegenerative process. Thus, the aim of this review is to explore the mechanisms of the adaptive immune system and their impact on the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases, with a particular focus on reactive antibodies and their potential as diagnostic biomarkers.