What are the molecular mechanisms underlying protein folding, and how do misfolded proteins contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's?

Protein folding is governed by thermodynamic principles and chaperone proteins that assist in the correct folding process. Misfolded proteins can form aggregates and disrupt cellular function, leading to neurodegenerative diseases characterized by the accumulation of protein plaques and neuronal damage.