Adrenoleukodystrophy: Current understanding of disease mechanisms, diagnosis, and therapeutic advances-a recent review.

Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is a complex and devastating X-linked neurodegenerative disorder classified as rare brain disease with profound effects on patients and their families. It can manifest in various clinical forms, ranging from adult-onset adrenomyeloneuropathy (AMN) to rapidly developing childhood cerebral adrenoleukodystrophy (CCALD), each presenting unique diagnostic and treatment challenges. At the molecular level, ALD results from mutations in the ATP-binding cassette subfamily D member 1 (ABCD1) gene, which disrupts peroxisomal β-oxidation, leading to the accumulation of very long-chain fatty acids (VLCFAs) and subsequent neurological damage. Understanding these pathogenic mechanisms has led to significant improvements in diagnosis and treatment strategies. Advances such as newborn screening and molecular profiling have facilitated early detection and intervention, contributing to improved clinical outcomes. Therapeutic innovations, including gene therapy and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), hold promise for modifying disease progression and enhancing quality of life. Despite these developments, major challenges remain, including the identification of disease modifiers, discovery of new therapeutic targets, and establishing the personalized treatment strategies. This review summarizes the current understanding of ALD, including its clinical spectrum, molecular basis, diagnostic approaches, and emerging therapies. Ongoing research and interdisciplinary collaboration are crucial for establishing the effective management of this debilitating disorder.