Scientists have discovered that the metabolism of sugars plays an important role in determining whether damaged brain cells (neurons) collapse or survive. They found that certain metabolic changes can activate internal protective programs in cells that temporarily slow down the neurodegeneration process. These findings suggest new possibilities for the treatment and study of neurodegenerative diseases. By activating these protective mechanisms, the brain could better defend itself against damage. The research opens new perspectives for the development of therapies that could help patients with neurodegenerative diseases. These findings could lead to a better understanding of how the brain responds to injury and disease.