Development of Alzheimer's disease and the organic changes involved in the process

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.1594802427083

• Palavras-chave: Alzheimer's, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Treatment.

• Keywords: Alzheimer's, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, Treatment.

• Abstract:

  Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative condition characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta peptide (Aβ) in the brain. The first clinical signs are related to the loss of recent memory, as the disease progresses, other areas are affected, such as attention, verbal fluency, visuospatial skills and difficulty in carrying out routine activities. Loss of consciousness, lucidity and motor coordination are visible in the advanced stages of the disease. These symptoms can be accompanied by behavioral disorders such as aggression, depression and hallucinations. Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of the disease, with mutations in genes such as APP, PS1, PS2 and ApoE4 related to the development of the disease. Furthermore, factors such as neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, and injuries to cholinergic neurons contribute to neurodegeneration. Metals such as zinc, copper and iron play important roles in the pathology of AD, being able to influence the production and accumulation of proteins related to the disease. Vitamin B12 deficiency is also associated with increased risk of Alzheimer's due to elevated homocysteine levels, and can cause brain damage. AD treatment is mainly medication and aims to minimize disease disturbances, stabilize cognitive and behavioral impairment and maintain daily functional capacity. Current research is focused on understanding the mechanisms of AD, such as abnormal metabolism of tau protein and β-amyloid, inflammatory response, cholinergic damage, and free radicals, to develop effective treatments that can halt or modify the course of the disease. New therapeutic and preventive strategies are being developed, along with improved methods of early diagnosis, representing a significant advance in the fight against this important public health issue.