Ageing and Neurodegeneration – The Role of Neurotransmitters’ Activity

Abstract

Disease and ageing are linked in many ways and especially by the mechanisms they share. For many diseases, the process of ageing is the main culprit leading to the pathology. Hence, it is crucial to understand the process of ageing, and its molecular and cellular mechanisms to have a better understanding and perspective on these age-related diseases. Neurodegenerative diseases are probably the most common types of age-related diseases. Their pathology is complex, however, changes in neurotransmitter levels are almost always present. These types of changes occur during ageing as well, therefore, exploring the link between those processes can give a clue for possible treatments. Monoamine oxidases (MAOs) are enzymes that break down monoamine neurotransmitters and their dysregulation has long been recorded in age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. There is strong evidence that modulating the MAOs’ expression and activity can be beneficial for patients suffering from these illnesses. Herein we critically analyze the literature and make associations among ageing, MAOs’ activity and neurotransmitters’ levels, thus highlighting their role in neurodegenerative diseases.