Work

Biochemical stress markers in neurodegeneration: Insights from 3D cellular models

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Understanding the multifaceted nature of neurodegenerative disease (NDDs) remains a significant challenge due to the complex intracellular /intercellular phenomena. This review explores the latest findings about the biochemical stress markers within the complex landscape of NDDs, with a specific focus on novel 3D cell cultures. Recent research highlights the importance of structural complexity and cellular crosstalk which lead to responses resembling those observed in the brain. However, issues such as vascularization and shear stress (which affect experimental reproducibility) remain. Here we emphasize the role of biochemical stressors in cellular interactions and communication relevant to NDDs, highlighting the emerging opportunities coming from exosomes/extracellular vesicles and noncoding RNAs as biomarkers, alongside the usefulness of brain organoids in terms of translational relevance. By bridging the gap between molecular mechanisms and organ dysfunction, 3D models emerge as essential tools for the discovery of novel theragnostic biomarkers and for the development of targeted therapeutic strategies.

Source: Current Opinion in Structural Biology

DOI: 10.1016/j.sbi.2026.103360

Authors: Ilaria Genovese, Davide Laurenti, Daniel Di Risola, Roberto Mattioli, Luciana Mosca

Institutions: Saint Camillus International University of Health and Medical Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Foro Italico University of Rome

Language: English

Topic: Extracellular vesicles in disease

Subfield: Molecular Biology

Field: Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,360