Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), evidenced by the progressive loss of disease-specific neural populations resulting in devastating complications, are a significant health and economic burden worldwide. Nevertheless, effective therapeutical and diagnostic strategies remain a tremendous challenge due to the multisystemic nature of NDs and the restrictive effects of the blood-brain barrier (BBB).

The utilization of engineered biomaterials and technologies at the nanoscale to facilitate tailored effects in specific sites within the central nervous system holds promise for effective diagnosis and treatment of NDs. Nanotechnology-based approaches can transform the management of these diseases by interacting with and modulating a target at the molecular level. Nanobiomaterials, capable of crossing the BBB, improve diagnosis and treatment of challenging conditions in specific brain regions. Advancements have been made in developing multifunctional nanomedicines. Combining nanocarriers with phytoconstituents, gene therapy, and neural stem cells approaches enables overcoming existing treatment or diagnosis limitations. Given the progress of nanotheranostic approaches from animal to human modelling, translational applicability and safety are key concerns that should be addressed through rigorous research. This demands a deep understanding of the interaction of biological systems with nanomaterials.

Contributions to this thematic issue are invited, including, but not limited to, the following topics:

• Biomaterials for nanotheranostic applications in neurodegenerative diseases
• Nanotoxicology and nanosafety of biomaterials
• Nano-scale medicines, sensors, implants, and imaging modalities in neurodegenerative disorders
• Nanomedicine contribution to regenerative approach in managing neurodegeneration
• Nanotechnology-empowered gene therapy against neurodegenerative disease
• Translation of nanotechnology-driven innovations in neurodegeneration
• Prospects and opportunities for nanotechnology-driven solutions in dementias.

Submission deadline: December 31, 2024.