Pathological mechanisms in Alzheimer’s disease
Old age, environmental factors and mutations in amyloid precursor protein (APP) are all implicated in the development of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). In AD, accumulation of insoluble amyloid (Ab42) and abnormal tau protein phosphorylation leads to the formation of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. These pathological hallmarks of AD cause neuronal death and neurotransmitter deficits in areas of the brain associated with higher mental functioning. Expression of the ApoE4 isoform of apolipoprotein, oxidative cell damage and inflammatory changes in the brain are also implicated in AD.
Click the image to view high resolution version
References
Neural plasticity and disorders of the nervous system. In: Neuroscience at a glance, Barker RA and Barasi S with Neal MJ. London, England, 1999:105–121.
Physiological Reviews 2001;81:741–766.