Enemies of the Brain: Review of Three Major Neurodegenerative Diseases

Abstract

The human brain, the seat of memory, movement, and thought, faces formidable enemies, some known, others still unidentified. Among the most devastating are neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s. Each affects distinct neural circuits, yet all lead to progressive neuronal loss and impairment of essential brain functions. These disorders selectively target specific brain regions while sharing fundamental pathological features, including neuronal degeneration and the gradual deterioration of cognitive and motor abilities. As leading causes of disability and dependency worldwide, they result in severe cognitive decline, motor dysfunction, and behavioral changes that profoundly diminish quality of life. This review compares these diseases by examining the affected brain structures, clinical manifestations, causes, and progression. By highlighting both shared mechanisms and disease-specific characteristics, it aims to deepen understanding of their underlying neuropathology and contribute to the development of targeted therapies to slow or halt their progression.