The Role of Lipid Domains and Physical Properties of Membranes in the Development of Age-Related Neurodegenerative Diseases

A growing number of studies points to the relationship between the development of neurodegenerative diseases and the structure and lipid composition of neuronal membranes. One of the structural elements of cell membranes, to which special attention is paid in this regard, are liquid-ordered lipid domains, or rafts. The study of rafts and age-related changes in the lipid composition of neuronal cells is becoming increasingly relevant and is constantly being updated. In this review, we tried to highlight the possible role of the lipid component of cell membranes, their structure, and physicochemical characteristics in the development of diseases associated with aging. Evidence is reviewed that supports a possible role of rafts in diseases that over a long period of time lead to disruption of the functioning of neurons. There is a reason to believe that the therapeutic effects of various molecules, such as lysolipids and gangliosides, are due to their physicochemical properties and are realized indirectly, through their influence on the organization of lipid domains in membranes. As the role of lipid domains and, in general, the mechanisms of interaction and mutual influence of the lipid composition and disease development are more fully understood, this knowledge can be used to develop new therapeutic or preventive methods to combat diseases associated with aging.