Brain Lipids and Lipid Droplet Dysregulation in Alzheimer’s Disease and Neuropsychiatric Disorders

Abstract

Lipids are essential components of the structure and for the function of brain cells. The intricate balance of lipids, including phospholipids, glycolipids, cholesterol, cholesterol ester, and triglycerides, is crucial for maintaining normal brain function. Brain lipids dysregulation plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and progression of neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders including schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease. Understanding the mechanisms of lipids dysregulation in these diseases is crucial for identifying better diagnostic biomarkers and for developing therapeutic strategies aiming at restoring lipid homeostasis. Here, we review the basic role of lipid components as well as a specific lipid organelle, lipid droplets, in brain function, highlighting the potential impact of altered lipid metabolism in the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders and Alzheimer’s disease.