Title:Advances in Understanding and Managing Alzheimer's Disease: From Pathophysiology to Innovative Therapeutic Strategies
Volume: 25
Issue: 11
Author(s): Sunny Rathee, Debasis Sen, Vishal Pandey and Sanjay K. Jain*
Affiliation:
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Dr. Harisingh Gour Vishwavidyalaya (A Central University), Sagar,
Madhya Pradesh, 470003, India
Keywords:
Alzheimer’s disease, amyloid β, lecanemab, central nervous system, cholinesterase inhibitors, neurodegenerative disorder.
Abstract: Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a debilitating neurodegenerative disorder characterized by
the presence of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques and tau-containing neurofibrillary tangles, leading to cognitive
and physical decline. Representing the majority of dementia cases, AD poses a significant
burden on healthcare systems globally, with onset typically occurring after the age of 65. While
most cases are sporadic, about 10% exhibit autosomal forms associated with specific gene mutations.
Neurofibrillary tangles and Aβ plaques formed by misfolded tau proteins and Aβ peptides
contribute to neuronal damage and cognitive impairment. Currently, approved drugs, such as
acetylcholinesterase inhibitors and N-methyl D-aspartate receptor agonists, offer only partial
symptomatic relief without altering disease progression. A promising development is using lecanemab,
a humanized IgG1 monoclonal antibody, as an immune therapeutic approach. Lecanemab
demonstrates selectivity for polymorphic Aβ variants and binds to large soluble Aβ aggregates,
providing a potential avenue for targeted treatment. This shift in understanding the role
of the adaptive immune response in AD pathogenesis opens new possibilities for therapeutic interventions
aiming to address the disease's intricate mechanisms. This review aims to summarize recent
advancements in understanding Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology and innovative therapeutic
approaches, providing valuable insights for both researchers and clinicians.
