Alzheimers Disease (Senile Dementia)

Abstract

The term Alzheimer's disease was first used by Emil Kraepelin in 1910 to differentiate between presenile dementia and senile dementia. Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a brain disorder that ultimately results in loss of independence and impaired cognitive function due to degeneration of brain cell. Although multifaceted in nature, AD is commonly categorized by cholinergic and amyloid theories. Several risk factors for the development of AD have been identified, and include but are not limited to age, genetics, prior head injuries, vascular disease, infections, and environment. At present, there are only two approved drugs for the treatment of AD, the cholinesterase enzyme inhibitors and N-methyl d-aspartate (NMDA) antagonists. Research grants focused on understanding the pathology of AD, which targets the mechanisms such as the abnormal metabolism of tau protein, increased levels of β-amyloid, inflammation, and the cholinergic and free radical damage associated with each. Future hypotheses which could lead to new therapies include DMT (disease-modifying therapeutic), chaperones, and other natural compounds.