This review explores recent advancements in gene therapy as a potential treatment for neurodegenerative diseases, focusing on intervention mechanisms, administration routes, and associated limitations. Following the PRISMA procedure guidelines, we systematically analyzed studies published since 2020 using the PICO framework to derive reliable conclusions. The efficacy of various gene therapies was evaluated for Parkinson’s disease (n = 12), spinal muscular atrophy (n = 8), Huntington’s disease (n = 3), Alzheimer’s disease (n = 3), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (n = 6). For each condition, we assessed the therapeutic approach, curative or disease-modifying potential, delivery methods, advantages, drawbacks, and side effects. Results indicate that gene therapies targeting specific genes are particularly effective in monogenic disorders, with promising clinical outcomes expected in the near future. In contrast, in polygenic diseases, therapies primarily aim to promote cell survival. A major challenge remains: the translation of animal model success to human clinical application. Additionally, while intracerebral delivery methods enhance therapeutic efficacy, they are highly invasive. Despite these hurdles, gene therapy represents a promising frontier in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, underscoring the need for continued research to refine and personalize treatments for each condition.
Objectives: Gastric cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality. Sarcopenia, characterized by reduced skeletal muscle mass, strength, and physical performance, is associated with poorer outcomes in gastrointestinal cancers. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of sarcopenia, including the Total Psoas Area Index (TPAI), and its association with tumor stage, postoperative complications, and survival in patients with gastric adenocarcinoma. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted, including 79 patients who underwent surgery for gastric adenocarcinoma. Sarcopenia was assessed using a combination of CT-derived muscle mass (TPAI), muscle strength (dynamometry), and functional status (SARC-F). Patients were divided into sarcopenic (SG) and non-sarcopenic (NSG) groups. Clinical and survival data were compared between groups. Results: Sarcopenia was identified in 36.7% of patients. Early-stage disease (I–II) was less frequent in the SG (20.7%) compared to the NSG (44%), whereas stage IV tumors were more common in the SG (20.7% vs. 6%). Sarcopenic patients had a lower body mass index and underwent fewer laparoscopic procedures (44.8% vs. 68%, p = 0.03). Postoperative complications, such as pneumonia and ileus, were more frequent in the SG. Overall survival was significantly lower in the SG (17 vs. 21 months, respectively, p = 0.042), with a reduction in disease-free survival as well. Postoperative TPAI values remained lower in the SG. Conclusions: Sarcopenia, as defined by combined assessment including TPAI, was associated with advanced tumor stage, increased postoperative risk, and reduced survival in patients with gastric cancer. Preoperative assessment of muscle mass may help identify high-risk patients and optimize clinical management.