Recent studies have elucidated critical molecular mechanisms underlying neuropathological conditions, particularly focusing on the interplay between metabolism and DNA repair. Zhou et al. identified a GTP-mediated signaling cascade that links cellular metabolism to DNA repair processes, highlighting the role of GTP in regulating Rac1 activity, which in turn influences the dephosphorylation of Abl-interactor 1 (Abi-1) by protein phosphatase 5 (PP5) (ref: Zhou doi.org/10.1158/2159-8290.CD-23-0437/). This finding suggests potential therapeutic implications for targeting metabolic pathways to enhance DNA repair mechanisms. In the context of neurodegenerative diseases, Tomé et al. reported that TDP-43 pathology is associated with increased tau burdens and seeding in Alzheimer's Disease (AD), indicating a pathological synergy between TDP-43 and hyperphosphorylated tau (p-tau) that exacerbates clinical outcomes (ref: Tomé doi.org/10.1186/s13024-023-00653-0/). Furthermore, Kolb et al. explored the role of small leucine-rich proteoglycans (SLRPs) in inhibiting central nervous system (CNS) regeneration, revealing that SLRPs contribute to the unfavorable structural and mechanical properties of the lesion environment, which contrasts with the regenerative capabilities observed in zebrafish (ref: Kolb doi.org/10.1038/s41467-023-42339-7/). Dams-O'Connor et al. provided insights into the neuropathological consequences of intimate partner violence (IPV), reporting a range of autopsy findings in women with traumatic brain injury (TBI) linked to IPV, emphasizing the need for further research into the long-term neurological impacts of such trauma (ref: Dams-O'Connor doi.org/10.1007/s00401-023-02646-1/).