Neurodegenerative diseases are, according to recent studies, one of the main causes of disability and death worldwide. Interest in molecular genetics has started to experience exponential growth thanks to numerous advancements in technology, shifts in the understanding of the disease as a phenomenon, and the change in the perspective regarding gene editing and the advantages of this action. The aim of this paper is to analyze the newest approaches in genetics and molecular sciences regarding four of the most important neurodegenerative disorders: Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We intend through this review to focus on the newest treatment, diagnosis, and predictions regarding this large group of diseases, in order to obtain a more accurate analysis and to identify the emerging signs that could lead to a better outcome in order to increase both the quality and the life span of the patient. Moreover, this review could provide evidence of future possible novel therapies that target the specific genes and that could be useful to be taken into consideration when the classical approaches fail to shed light.

(1) Aim: To evaluate the failure reason and surface modifications of a retrieved knee prosthesis; (2) Methods: Rapid confocal Raman spectroscopy screening was applied on the surface of a retrieved knee prosthesis (both titanium and UHMWPE (Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) component) in order to determine predominate implant damage, along with the chemical composition of synovial fluid accumulated in the stem of the tibial component during the implantation period. Correlations between the medical records of the patient (clinical and radiographic information) and spectroscopic results are pointed out, the parameters being interpreted in the context of proper functioning and life span of knee prosthesis; (3) Results: The metallic tibial component does not show any modification during the implantation period, as demonstrated by the well preserved titanium component with signature of anatase phase detected in retrieved component, compared to unused piece. The spectral features of polymeric component (ultrahigh molecular weight polyethylene, UHMWPE) revealed structural modification in crystallinity and amorphous phase accompanied by insignificant level of oxidation (OI < 1). Scratching, pitting and persistent organic spots as a result of mechanical and chemical deterioration were noticed on the surface of retrieved insert. Acrylic cement deterioration was also noticed. Synovial fluid collected from the stem of the tibial component demonstrated a lipidomic profile; (4) Conclusions: Combining the clinical evidences with confocal Raman spectroscopy allowed a rapid screening with high sensitivity and nondestructive measurements in the case of failure in TKA (total knee arthroplasty). The third body wear and lipidomic profile of synovial fluid are cumulative factors of failure in this case, resulting in an osteolysis that finally leads to an aseptic loosening.

Background and Objectives: Glioblastoma (GBM) is the most aggressive form of primary brain tumor, characterised by high recurrence rates and poor patient prognosis. This study aimed to identify gene-expression signatures and molecular networks associated with primary and recurrent GBM to better understand the biological mechanisms underlying tumor progression. Materials and Methods: Gene expression analysis of TCGA data was conducted to identify differentially expressed genes across tumor, recurrent, and normal brain tissues. Analysis of overlapping differentially expressed gene sets revealed both common and specific gene-expression profiles across the groups, highlighting genes potentially involved in GBM recurrence. Gene network and canonical pathway analyses were performed using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) to identify key pathways and cellular functions altered in GBM. Results: Our data identified distinct molecular signatures in tumor, recurrent, and normal brain samples, highlighting dysregulated genes associated with cellular growth, proliferation, and movement. Transcriptomic stratification revealed progressive tumor- and recurrence-adapted states, with composite Tumor Scores (TS) and Recurrence Scores (RS) classifying samples into four classes: normal-like, proliferative, transitional, and recurrence-adapted tumor states. Conclusions: These findings provide insights into the signaling networks and biological mechanisms underlying GBM recurrence and may guide the identification of potential therapeutic targets to improve the management of this malignancy.