Carmen Lahr, Elle Wilson, Melanie Sengupta, Michela Bernini, Alexander Skupin
The brain is a highly complex organ composed of diverse, specialized cell types whose coordinated functions underpin cognition and behavior. While extensive research has elucidated neuronal signaling mechanisms, the metabolic interactions between distinct brain cells that sustain energy homeostasis are not yet comprehensively understood. Recently, brain energy metabolism has gained significant attention as a unifying factor in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, potentially opening new avenues for therapeutic development. In this review, we provide an overview of brain energy metabolism, examine its role in neurodegeneration, and highlight current challenges and future perspectives in the field.