Bidirectional links between sleep deprivation and neurodegenerative diseases

Sleep is essential for maintaining homeostatic functions, supporting optimal brain activity, and facilitating recovery processes. The clinical consequences of sleep deprivation and sleep disorders require an integrated approach to diagnosis and therapy, as these conditions affect the progression and development of various diseases and systemic pathological processes. Sleep disturbances are a significant global health concern. This article reviews the potential impact and bidirectional associations between sleep deprivation and the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.The mechanisms underlying the imbalance between the formation and clearance of abnormal proteins, which are central to the pathogenesis of proteinopathies associated with sleep disorders or deprivation, are examined. Although treating Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and other neurodegenerative conditions remains challenging, recent research may enable prevention and targeted interventions at early stages, including extensive screening and modification of risk factors such as sleep deprivation and disturbance.