ABSTRACT:
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder primarily associated with memory loss and cognitive decline. Despite significant advances in understanding its pathophysiology, particularly since its initial description by Alois Alzheimer in 1907, effective disease-modifying treatments remain elusive. The disease's development is influenced by several factors, including amyloid-beta accumulation, tau hyperphosphorylation, and cholinergic dysfunction, leading to neuronal degeneration. Emerging evidence also highlights the dopaminergic system's role in AD, with dopaminergic dysfunction contributing to memory impairments and non-cognitive symptoms even in early stages. The vascular hypothesis has garnered attention, suggesting a link between cardiovascular disease and AD, emphasizing vascular pathology as a significant risk factor for cognitive decline. Moreover, there is growing recognition of the heterogeneity in AD incidence and prevalence across different populations, with lower rates observed in certain Asian countries compared to Western nations. This variability is influenced by factors such as age, genetics, and lifestyle, as well as the challenges of standardized dementia assessments in developing regions. Additionally, biomarkers in cerebrospinal fluid and neuroimaging techniques, such as PET scans, have become essential tools in diagnosing AD and monitoring its progression, particularly through the detection of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Understanding the complex interplay of these factors is crucial for developing effective therapeutic strategies. The future of AD research lies in unravelling the intricate molecular mechanisms underlying its pathology and identifying potential targets for intervention.