Epigenetic mechanisms in Alzheimer's disease

Area of Science:

• Neuroscience
• Genetics
• Gerontology

Background:

• Global life expectancy increases, leading to more age-dependent diseases like Alzheimer's disease (AD).
• The exact causes and progression of sporadic AD are not fully understood, but genetics and environmental factors, potentially via epigenetics, are implicated.
• Aging is the primary risk factor for AD, with epigenetic changes occurring during aging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of epigenetic mechanisms in Alzheimer's disease (AD).
• To explore the impact of environmental factors and lifestyle on AD epigenetics.
• To discuss potential epigenetic-based treatments for AD.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on Alzheimer's disease, epigenetics, and aging.
• Examination of epigenetic modifications such as DNA methylation and histone modifications.
• Analysis of preclinical studies on lifestyle interventions and epigenetic mechanisms in AD models.

Main Results:

• Epigenetic alterations are recognized in AD, influenced by aging and environmental factors.
• Lifestyle interventions show positive effects on cognitive function in animal models of AD, linked to epigenetic changes.
• Epigenetic treatments, including HDAC inhibitors and RNA-based drugs, show preclinical promise for AD.

Conclusions:

• Lifestyle adjustments with an epigenetic focus are currently the most promising strategy for preventing or delaying Alzheimer's disease (AD).
• Further clinical trials are needed to validate epigenetic therapies, but lifestyle interventions offer a viable preventive approach.