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Photonics Dictionary

neurodegenerative

Neurodegenerative refers to a process or condition characterized by progressive dysfunction or loss of structure and function of neurons (nerve cells) in the brain or peripheral nervous system. This term is typically used to describe diseases or conditions where there is gradual deterioration of nervous system tissues, leading to a decline in cognitive function, movement abilities, and sometimes, other neurological functions.

Progressive nature: These conditions worsen over time, often leading to increasingly severe symptoms as more neurons become affected.

Loss of neurons:
Neurodegenerative diseases involve the gradual or sometimes rapid death of neurons, which can disrupt normal brain function and affect various bodily processes.

Functional impairments: Depending on the specific disease, symptoms may include memory loss, cognitive decline, changes in mood and behavior, difficulties with movement (such as tremors or loss of coordination), and other neurological deficits.

Examples of neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, Huntington's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and multiple sclerosis (MS). These conditions are often chronic and currently have no known cure, although treatments may help manage symptoms and slow disease progression in some cases.

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