Tau-targeting nanoparticles for treatment of Alzheimer's disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disorder characterized by the loss of neural connections and decreased brain tissue volume. Initially affecting the hippocampus and entorhinal complex, which are responsible for memory, the disease later impacts the cerebral cortex, controlling language, logic, and social conduct. While the exact cause is unknown, genetic mutations and environmental factors are implicated. Diagnosis involves computed tomography (CT) scans, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRIs), Positron emission tomography (PET) scans, and lumbar punctures to detect brain abnormalities, protein deposits, and cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers. AD features beta-amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tau tangles that disrupt neuronal function, chronic inflammation, blood-brain barrier impairment, brain atrophy, and neuronal death. There is no cure; current treatments manage symptoms and slow cognitive decline. Research into genetic, cellular, and molecular pathways aims to develop targeted therapies. Tau tangle accumulation is closely linked to AD, making it crucial to explore therapies that restore normal tau pathways and prevent tau accumulation. Nanoparticulate drug delivery technologies offer promise in this area. This review discusses the potential of nanotechnology-based therapies to target AD-related tau accumulation and restore normal tau protein mechanics, which could preserve neuronal transmission, synaptic integrity, and brain tissue volume.