The intrinsic, adaptive capacity of the central nervous system to effectively resist the pathological processes that drive neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, and to successfully maintain optimal cognitive and motor function despite the presence of age-related molecular damage. This resilience is a complex trait dependent on the brain’s structural integrity, its robust synaptic plasticity, and its efficiency in managing chronic oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. Building this neurodegenerative disease resilience is a paramount objective in preventative neurological care and comprehensive longevity strategies.
Origin
This concept represents a modern evolution in neuroscience and clinical epidemiology, shifting the focus from treating overt disease pathology to enhancing the brain’s inherent protective mechanisms. The term is rooted in the observation that not all individuals with significant pathological markers, such as amyloid or tau accumulation, progress to clinical dementia. This highlights the crucial role of individual variability in brain reserve and adaptive functional capacity.
Mechanism
Neurodegenerative resilience is primarily mediated by the robust signaling of neurotrophic factors, most notably BDNF, which actively promote neuronal survival, synaptic health, and overall brain plasticity, effectively increasing the functional reserve. It also critically involves the efficient clearance of toxic protein aggregates, such as amyloid-beta, a process largely facilitated by the glymphatic system which is most active during high-quality deep sleep. Optimal hormonal signaling, including balanced thyroid and sex hormones, further supports this mechanism by modulating neuronal energy metabolism and reducing chronic neuroinflammation.
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