Neurodegenerative Diseases Involve Multifactorial Interplay of Genetics and Environmental Factors

Abstract

Neurodegenerative diseases are one of the leading causes of morbidity and disability worldwide, afflicting millions of individuals. These diseases emerge as a result of multiple factors, sharing pathogenic pathway that includes mitochondrial dysfunction, misfolded protein aggregation, and oxidative stress. Genetic and environmental factors have been identified to play a key role in neurodegeneration and modifying the risk of the disease. The association of neurodegenerative diseases to genetic factors and environmental agent’s exposure is not well conclusive. As a consequence, studying the interplay of genetic and environmental factors in neurodegenerative diseases can help researchers better understand gene and therapy and disease progression. In this chapter, an attempt has been made to discuss the multifactorial degenerative process and the role of genetic and environmental factors in common neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the mechanisms of disease initiation and progression is crucial for disease prevention and modification of disease risk. These information would be helpful in the exploration of therapeutic options against these diseases.