Synaptic aspects of the pathogenesis of autism, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease

Abstract

Recently, there has been evidence that alterations in functionality of synapses both at the pre- and postsynaptic level play an important role in the pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative diseases and autism spectrum disorders. Of particular interest may be the data on synaptic defects appearing in the early, asymptomatic stages of the disease, when it might still be possible to prevent mass degeneration of neurons. Probably, modulation of synaptic signal transduction at this stage is very effective through therapy of a number of similar diseases. This review aims to explore the role of synaptic structures in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and autism spectrum disorders.