Dear Colleagues,

Cardio‑neurology sits at the crossroads of cardiovascular and nervous system research, exploring how heart and brain health intersect to influence disease progression, patient outcomes, and therapeutic strategies. Cardiovascular disorders such as atrial fibrillation, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure often carry neurological sequelae, ranging from cognitive decline to strokes, whereas neurological conditions can impose hemodynamic stress and autonomic dysfunction. Understanding the bidirectional nature of heart–brain interactions is critical for earlier diagnoses, more precise risk stratification, and targeted interventions that address both cardiac and neural disease components of disease.

Despite advances, key gaps remain. Mechanistically, the molecular and cellular pathways linking myocardial stress to blood–brain barrier integrity or neuroinflammation are incompletely defined. A major challenge in diagnostic tools is the inability to capture the dynamic interplay between cardio‑neural interactions in real time, along with a lack of a clear understanding of the specific role of biomarkers. Therapeutically, agents designed for one system can exacerbate pathology in the other, and their interactions need to be further studied. Longitudinal data on combined cardiovascular and neurological outcomes remain sparse, limiting our ability to predict recovery trajectories and long‑term quality of life.

This special issue, “Cardio‑Neurology: Mechanisms, Diagnosis, Treatment and Outcomes” invites original research, reviews, and translational studies that bridge these fields. We welcome submissions that:

• elucidate novel molecular or cellular pathways connecting cardiac and neurological pathology;
• validate biomarkers or imaging modalities for the early detection of cardio-neurological diseases;
• report clinical trials or cohort studies assessing integrated diagnostic or therapeutic approaches;
• explore patient‑centered outcomes, rehabilitation strategies, and health economics in combined cardiovascular and neurological care.

By bringing together discoveries from basic science, clinical investigation, and health services research, this issue aims to accelerate the development of comprehensive, system‑wide strategies that improve both cardiac and neurological health. We look forward to your contributions and to fostering a multidisciplinary dialogue that advances understanding and patient care at the heart–brain interface.

Ching-Hui Sia
Guest Editor