Prof. Kęstutis Petrikonis

Prof. Kęstutis Petrikonis is the ex-vice rector for studies at Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, a neurologist, neurology professor, neuroscientist, teacher, mentor and an AI enthusiast. His lecture will trace "one continuum" from brain to periphery. He will look at how metabolic phenotypes — visceral obesity, "normal weight but unhealthy" profile, atherogenic dyslipidemia create a pro‑oxidative milieu where both cerebral microangiopathy and painful neuropathy thrive. He willl explain why the NRF2 pathway matters, when metabolic stress overwhelms this protective system, small vessels leak and small fibers die. The practical message - check metabolic phenotypes in every patient with "small" neurological complaints, whether white matter lesions, unexplained burning pain, or autonomic symptoms. Recognizing this continuum opens a window for early intervention, before "small" becomes "big" disability.