Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that significantly affects memory, thinking, and behavior. Despite significant advances in research, the exact biological mechanisms that lead to the development of this disease are still being studied and investigated. In this article, we will detail the most important biological mechanisms proposed to explain the development of Alzheimer’s disease, focusing on the latest research in this field.
Amyloid plaques and neurofibrillar entanglements: the two hallmarks
Accumulations of amyloid-beta protein and tau protein tangles are hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Amyloid plaques: These plaques are made up of protein fragments that are intertwined outside neurons. Scientists believe that these plaques cause damage to nerve cells and lead to inflammation in the brain.
- Neurofibrillar synapses: These synapses within neurons are made up of interlocking protein fibers. These tangles destroy the internal structure of the neuron and prevent it from performing its functions normally.
Other possible biological mechanisms
In addition to amyloid plaques and neurofibrillar entanglements, there are several other biological mechanisms that may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease, including:
- Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is thought to play an important role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. Inflammation damages nerve cells and releases harmful chemicals.
- Oxidative stress: The brain is exposed to oxidative stress due to free radicals that damage cells. Oxidative stress is thought to play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
- Impaired neurotransmitter transmission: Alzheimer’s disease leads to imbalance in the transmission of neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine, affecting memory and learning.
- Genetic factors: Genes play an important role in increasing the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. There are many genes associated with this disease, such as the APOE-ε4 gene.
- Mitochondrial disorders: Mitochondria are the “power stations” of the cell and play an important role in energy production. It is believed that mitochondrial disorders may contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
The relationship between these mechanisms
The exact relationship between these different mechanisms is still not entirely clear. Scientists believe that these mechanisms work together to cause progressive brain damage that leads to the appearance of symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease. For example, the buildup of amyloid plaques may lead to increased inflammation and oxidative stress, which in turn leads to nerve cell damage and the formation of neurofibrilla tangles.
The importance of understanding biological mechanisms
Understanding the biological mechanisms underlying Alzheimer’s disease is critical to developing new and effective treatments for the disease. By setting the molecular targets that lead to disease progression, scientists can develop drugs that target these goals and stop disease progression.
Despite significant advances in research, our understanding of the full biological mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease is still evolving. However, ongoing research in this area opens up new avenues for the development of more effective treatments for this chronic and influential disease.
