Epigenetics in Alzheimer's Disease: A Critical Overview

Area of Science:

• Epigenetics and Molecular Biology
• Neuroscience
• Gerontology

Background:

• Epigenetic modifications, particularly DNA methylation, are implicated in complex diseases and aging.
• These alterations are increasingly recognized for their role in Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk and progression, affecting AD-related gene expression.
• Current DNA methylation studies face limitations due to tissue specificity, hindering the identification of accessible biomarkers for this brain disorder.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review epigenetic changes and aging measures as potential biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease (AD) detection, prognosis, and progression.
• To discuss the development and application of epigenetic clocks in assessing aging acceleration in AD patients.
• To explore the therapeutic potential of reversing epigenetic modifications for AD treatment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and critical discussion of existing research on epigenetics and Alzheimer's disease.
• Analysis of studies utilizing DNA methylation patterns to understand AD pathogenesis.
• Examination of epigenetic clocks and their relevance to aging in the context of AD.

Main Results:

• Epigenetic alterations, including DNA methylation, are associated with AD risk and progression.
• Epigenetic clocks suggest potential age acceleration in AD patients, highlighting aging as a factor in disease development.
• Tissue-specific nature of DNA methylation poses challenges for biomarker discovery in accessible tissues.

Conclusions:

• Epigenetic biomarkers hold promise for AD detection, prognosis, and monitoring disease progression.
• Reversible epigenetic modifications represent a potential therapeutic avenue for Alzheimer's disease.
• Further research is needed to develop reliable, non-invasive epigenetic biomarkers for clinical application in AD.