LAUSR

ABSTRACT Life expectancy has considerably increased over the last decades. The negative consequence of this augmented longevity has been a dramatic increase of age‐related chronic neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and multiple sclerosis. Epidemiology is telling us there exists a strong correlation between the neuronal loss characterizing these disorders and metabolic dysfunction. This review aims at presenting the evidence supporting the existence of a molecular system linking metabolism with neurodegeneration, with a specific focus on the role of two hormones with a key role in the regulatory cross talk between metabolic imbalance and the damage of nervous system: leptin and ghrelin. This article is part of the Special Issue entitled ‘Metabolic Impairment as Risk Factors for Neurodegenerative Disorders.’ HighlightsLeptin exerts a neuroprotective role by blocking the formation of A&bgr; and NFT and promoting dopaminergic neuron survival.Leptin also plays a pro‐inflammatory role by activating T cells and worsening blood‐brain barrier dysregulation.Ghrelin preserves dopaminergic neurons and motor coordination and protects blood‐brain barrier.Ghrelin also plays an anti‐inflammatory role by reducing microglial activation and pro‐inflammatory cytokines.An altered metabolic control impairs the neuroprotective role of leptin and ghrelin.