The Role of Neurovascular System in Neurodegenerative Diseases

The neurovascular system (NVS), which consisted of neurons, glia, and vascular cells, is a functional and structural unit of the brain. The NVS regulates blood-brain barrier (BBB) permeability and cerebral blood flow (CBF), thereby maintaining the brain's microenvironment for normal functioning, neuronal survival, and information processing. Recent studies have highlighted the role of vascular dysfunction in several neurodegenerative diseases. This is not unexpected since both nervous and vascular systems are functionally interdependent and show close anatomical apposition, as well as similar molecular pathways. However, despite extensive research, the precise mechanism by which neurovascular dysfunction contributes to neurodegeneration remains incomplete. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms of neurovascular dysfunction in disease conditions may allow us to develop potent and effective therapies for prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases. This review article summarizes the current research in the context of neurovascular signaling associated with neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), Parkinson's disease (PD), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and Huntington's disease (HD). We also discuss the potential implication of neurovascular factor as a novel therapeutic target and prognostic marker in patients with neurodegenerative conditions.