Clearing The Amyloid In Alzheimer's: Progress Towards Earlier Diagnosis And Effective Treatments – An Update For Clinicians
Document Type
Journal Article
Publisher
Future Science Group
Faculty
Faculty of Health, Engineering and Science
School
School of Medical Sciences / Centre of Excellence for Alzheimer's Disease Research and Care
RAS ID
19679
Abstract
A beta (Aβ or β-amyloid) is a key molecule in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. According to the ‘amyloid hypothesis’, the gradual accumulation of Aβ triggers events which results in neuronal loss in regions of the brain involved with memory and learning. Diverse agents have been developed to reduce brain Aβ accumulation or to enhance its clearance. Some have progressed to human trials, however all have failed to improve cognition in patients. This has led researchers to question whether Aβ is really the problem. However, the trials have been targeting end stages of AD, by which stage extensive irreversible neuronal damage has already occurred. Intervention is required preclinically, therefore preclinical AD biomarkers are needed. In this regard, amyloid imaging and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers are leading the way, with plasma biomarkers and eye tests also being investigated. This review covers the current state of knowledge of Aβ as an early diagnostic biomarker and as a therapeutic target in AD.
DOI
10.2217/nmt.14.29
Access Rights
subscription content
Comments
Asih, P. R., Chatterjee, P., Verdile, G., Gupta, V. B., Trengove, R. D., & Martins, R. N. (2014). Clearing the amyloid in Alzheimer's: progress towards earlier diagnosis and effective treatments-an update for clinicians. Neurodegenerative disease management, 4(5), 363-378.Available here