Search for Articles:
Title / Keyword
Author / Affiliation / Email
Journal
Article Type
 
 
Advanced Search
 
Section
Special Issue
Volume
Issue
Number
Page
 
9.0
4.9
Journals
IJMS
Special Issues
25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular...
ijms-logo
Submit to Special Issue Submit Abstract to Special Issue Review for IJMS Propose a Special Issue

Journal Menu

► Journal Menu

Journal Browser

► Journal Browser
share announcement

25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular Neurobiology

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Neurobiology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 2975

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Kiminobu Sugaya

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
College of Medicine, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL 32816, USA
Interests: stem cell; Alzheimer’s disease; neurodegenerative diseases; down syndrome; regeneration therapy; cancer stem cell; exosome
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The field of molecular neurobiology has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 25 years, driven by rapid technological advances and deepening insights into the fundamental mechanisms governing brain development, function, and disease. In celebration of the 25th anniversary of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences (IJMS), this Special Issue, “25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular Neurobiology”, aims to highlight the latest developments, unresolved questions, and future directions in this dynamic and interdisciplinary area of research.

We welcome contributions that explore molecular and cellular processes underlying neural function and dysfunction. Topics of interest include but are not limited to the following: intracellular and intercellular signaling in neurons and glia, transcriptional and epigenetic regulation of neural gene expression, mechanisms of synaptic plasticity, protein misfolding and aggregation, neuroinflammatory cascades, and cell death pathways in neurodegenerative conditions. Additionally, we encourage submissions addressing the roles of non-coding RNAs, exosomes, ion channels, mitochondrial dysfunction, and the molecular basis of neuron–glia interactions.

This Special Issue also welcomes advances in cutting-edge methodologies—such as single-cell omics, CRISPR-based genome editing, optogenetics, and molecular imaging techniques—that provide new windows into the complexity of the nervous system at molecular resolution. Furthermore, we encourage translational studies that bridge molecular mechanisms with clinical applications, including biomarker discovery, drug development, and therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders.

As we reflect on the progress made since the founding of IJMS, we look forward to contributions that not only celebrate past achievements but also illuminate emerging trends and critical challenges in molecular neurobiology. We invite researchers from basic science, clinical neuroscience, bioengineering, and related fields to join us in marking this milestone and shaping the future of brain research.

Prof. Dr. Kiminobu Sugaya
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. International Journal of Molecular Sciences is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. There is an Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal. For details about the APC please see here. Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • molecular neurobiology
  • neural signaling and gene regulation
  • synaptic plasticity
  • neurodevelopment
  • neurodegeneration
  • neuroregeneration
  • neuroinflammation
  • epigenetics in neuroscience
  • non-coding RNAs
  • protein misfolding and aggregation
  • exosomes and extracellular vesicles
  • stem cells and neural repair
  • biomarkers of neurological disease
  • translational neuroscience
  • neuropharmacology
  • brain omics (genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics)
  • neuronal-glial interactions
  • mitochondrial dysfunction in the nervous system

Benefits of Publishing in a Special Issue

  • Ease of navigation: Grouping papers by topic helps scholars navigate broad scope journals more efficiently.
  • Greater discoverability: Special Issues support the reach and impact of scientific research. Articles in Special Issues are more discoverable and cited more frequently.
  • Expansion of research network: Special Issues facilitate connections among authors, fostering scientific collaborations.
  • External promotion: Articles in Special Issues are often promoted through the journal's social media, increasing their visibility.
  • Reprint: MDPI Books provides the opportunity to republish successful Special Issues in book format, both online and in print.

Further information on MDPI's Special Issue policies can be found here.

Published Papers (5 papers)

Download All Papers
Order results
Result details
Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:

Research

Jump to: Review

18 pages, 1615 KB  
Article
Spectroscopic Profile of Metabolome Dynamics During Rat Cortical Neuronal Differentiation
by Idália Almeida, Filipa Martins, Brian J. Goodfellow, Alexandra Nunes and Sandra Rebelo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 8027; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26168027 - 20 Aug 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
Neuronal differentiation is a highly dynamic process marked by coordinated biochemical, structural, and metabolic changes. Rat primary cortical neurons are the preferred cell model to study this process as they can maintain their functional attributes, including functional synapses, and simulate the behavior of [...] Read more.
Neuronal differentiation is a highly dynamic process marked by coordinated biochemical, structural, and metabolic changes. Rat primary cortical neurons are the preferred cell model to study this process as they can maintain their functional attributes, including functional synapses, and simulate the behavior of neuronal cells in vivo. In this study, we employed Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy to monitor the molecular transformations that occur during the differentiation of rat cortical neurons. Partial least squares regression (PLS-R) analysis from the 1800–1500 cm−1 region further allows the identification of the spectroscopic profile of early and late differentiation stages, highlighting the technique’s ability to detect subtle molecular changes. Further peak intensity analysis revealed significant changes in the cells’ metabolome during differentiation; it was possible to observe remodeling of protein secondary structures and an increase in protein phosphorylation levels, which can imply activation of signaling pathways essential for neuronal differentiation and maturation. Concomitantly, lipid-associated spectral regions demonstrated increased levels of total lipids, lipid esters, and longer acyl chains and decreased unsaturation levels, alterations that can be linked to membrane expansion throughout neuronal differentiation. These findings underscore FTIR spectroscopy as a valuable tool for studying neuronal differentiation, offering insights into the conformational and metabolic shifts underlying the formation of mature neuronal phenotypes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular Neurobiology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1848 KB  
Article
Expression of Dynorphin and Kappa-Opioid Receptors in the Bed Nucleus of the Stria Terminalis: Focus on Adolescent Development
by Albert R. Gradev, Pavel I. Rashev, Dimitrinka Y. Atanasova, Angel D. Dandov and Nikolai E. Lazarov
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7955; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26167955 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 219
Abstract
The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a heterogeneous and complex limbic forebrain structure, which plays an important role in drug addiction and anxiety. Dynorphin and kappa-opioid receptors (DYN/KOR) comprise a crucial neural system involved in modulating stress-induced drug and alcohol [...] Read more.
The bed nucleus of the stria terminalis (BNST) is a heterogeneous and complex limbic forebrain structure, which plays an important role in drug addiction and anxiety. Dynorphin and kappa-opioid receptors (DYN/KOR) comprise a crucial neural system involved in modulating stress-induced drug and alcohol addiction. Previous studies have highlighted the BNST as a brain region with a strong DYN/KOR expression. However, no research has been conducted on the adolescent plasticity of this system. In the present study, we used 20- and 60-day-old Wistar rats to reveal the adolescent dynamics and possible sex differences of the DYN/KOR system in certain BNST nuclei associated with addiction behavior. We found a low expression of DYN in neuronal perikarya and a significant increase in DYN-containing nerve fibers in the lateral posterior and lateral dorsal nuclei of the rat BNST. In addition, an enhanced expression of KORs was observed in the examined BNST subnuclei with some sex differences favoring females, thus highlighting the importance of considering critical developmental differences between sexes in research. The dynamics of the DYN/KOR system observed in this study may help to explain the increased vulnerability of adolescents for developing drug and alcohol addiction. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular Neurobiology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3248 KB  
Article
Interneuron-Driven Ictogenesis in the 4-Aminopyridine Model: Depolarization Block and Potassium Accumulation Initiate Seizure-like Activity
by Elena Yu. Proskurina, Julia L. Ergina and Aleksey V. Zaitsev
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6812; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146812 - 16 Jul 2025
Viewed by 483
Abstract
The mechanisms of ictal discharge initiation remain incompletely understood, particularly the paradoxical role of inhibitory fast-spiking interneurons in seizure generation. Using simultaneous whole-cell recordings of interneurons and pyramidal neurons combined with extracellular [K+]o monitoring in mouse entorhinal cortex-hippocampal slices (4-aminopyridine [...] Read more.
The mechanisms of ictal discharge initiation remain incompletely understood, particularly the paradoxical role of inhibitory fast-spiking interneurons in seizure generation. Using simultaneous whole-cell recordings of interneurons and pyramidal neurons combined with extracellular [K+]o monitoring in mouse entorhinal cortex-hippocampal slices (4-aminopyridine model of epileptiform activity), we identified a critical transition sequence: interneurons displayed high-frequency firing during the preictal phase before entering depolarization block (DB). DB onset coincided with the peak of rate of extracellular [K+] accumulation. Pyramidal cells remained largely silent during interneuronal hyperactivity but started firing within 1.1 ± 0.3 s after DB onset, marking the transition to ictal discharges. This consistent sequence (interneuron DB → [K+]o rate peak → pyramidal cell firing) was observed in 100% of entorhinal cortex recordings. Importantly, while neurons across all entorhinal cortical layers synchronously fired during the first ictal discharge, hippocampal CA1 neurons showed fundamentally different activity: they generated high-frequency interictal bursts but did not participate in ictal events, indicating region-specific seizure initiation mechanisms. Our results demonstrate that interneuron depolarization block acts as a precise temporal switch for ictogenesis and suggest that the combined effect of disinhibition and K+-mediated depolarization triggers synchronous pyramidal neuron recruitment. These findings provide a mechanistic framework for seizure initiation in focal epilepsy, highlighting fast-spiking interneurons dysfunction as a potential therapeutic target. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular Neurobiology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

Review

Jump to: Research

26 pages, 1700 KB  
Review
Multisystemic Impact of RNF213 Arg4810Lys: A Comprehensive Review of Moyamoya Disease and Associated Vasculopathies
by Eva Bagyinszky, YoungSoon Yang and Seong Soo A. An
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(16), 7864; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26167864 - 14 Aug 2025
Viewed by 251
Abstract
The ring finger protein 213 (RNF213) Arg4810Lys variant has been previously identified as a significant risk factor for Moyamoya disease (MMD), particularly in East Asian populations. This review explores the broader impact of the Arg4810Lys mutation on various cerebrovascular conditions, including Moyamoya syndrome [...] Read more.
The ring finger protein 213 (RNF213) Arg4810Lys variant has been previously identified as a significant risk factor for Moyamoya disease (MMD), particularly in East Asian populations. This review explores the broader impact of the Arg4810Lys mutation on various cerebrovascular conditions, including Moyamoya syndrome (MMS), intracranial artery stenosis, quasi-Moyamoya syndromes, ischemic stroke, and intracranial atherosclerosis. Beyond the brain, it is also implicated in pulmonary arterial hypertension, coronary artery disease, and renal artery stenosis, emphasizing its systemic effects. Functional studies suggest that RNF213 Arg4810Lys alters angiogenic signaling, endothelial cell function, vascular remodeling, and immune response pathways, especially when influenced by environmental stressors, like hypoxia or inflammation. The gene dosage of Arg4810Lys significantly affects disease phenotypes, with homozygous carriers typically experiencing earlier onset with increased severe symptoms. The variant also exhibits incomplete penetrance and frequently co-occurs with additional genetic alterations, including trisomy, KIF1A, FLNA, and PCSK9 mutations, which complicates its pathogenicity. A comprehensive understanding of RNF213 Arg4810Lys’s systemic impact is essential to developing effective risk assessment strategies, personalized treatments, and targeted therapies for associated vascular diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular Neurobiology)
►▼ Show Figures

Figure 1

38 pages, 1540 KB  
Review
Understanding the Pre-Clinical Stages of Parkinson’s Disease: Where Are We in Clinical and Research Settings?
by Camilla Dalla Verde, Sri Jayanti, Korri El Khobar, John A. Stanford, Claudio Tiribelli and Silvia Gazzin
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(14), 6881; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26146881 - 17 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1549
Abstract
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the world. PD is characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms, but the diagnosis primarily relies on the clinical assessment of postural and movement abnormalities, supported by imaging and genetic testing. It is [...] Read more.
Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder in the world. PD is characterized by motor and non-motor symptoms, but the diagnosis primarily relies on the clinical assessment of postural and movement abnormalities, supported by imaging and genetic testing. It is widely accepted that the disease process begins decades before the onset of overt symptoms. Emerging evidence suggests that neuroinflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of PD, particularly during the pre-clinical phase. Activated microglia, increased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines, and persistent oxidative stress have all been associated with the gradual loss of dopaminergic neurons. Although earlier detection and diagnosis remain elusive, achieving these goals is crucial for advancing prevention and disease-modifying strategies. Clinical studies are ongoing. To fill the gap, research models that recapitulate the chronic disease progression of PD are crucial to test preventive and disease-modifying strategies. This review briefly summarizes clinical knowledge on PD as a starting point for improving research models. Furthermore, we will critically evaluate how the existing models have been utilized and highlight opportunities to overcome their limitations and enhance the translational relevance to clinical application. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue 25th Anniversary of IJMS: Updates and Advances in Molecular Neurobiology)
►▼ Show Figures

Graphical abstract

Show export options expand_more Show export options expand_less
Select all
Export citation of selected articles as:
 
Displaying articles 1-5
Back to TopTop