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Updated: Sep 13, 2025

Fabrication of Amyloid-β-Secreting Alginate Microbeads for Use in Modelling Alzheimer's Disease
Published on: July 6, 2019
Alzheimer's Disease Etiology Hypotheses and Therapeutic Strategies: A Perspective
Naomi Scarano1,2, Francesca Musumeci1, Beatrice Casini1,2
1Department of Pharmacy, Section of Medicinal Chemistry, School of Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Genoa, Viale Benedetto XV, 3, 16132 Genoa, Italy.
Abstract:
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive, complex, multifactorial, neurodegenerative disease and accounts for most cases of dementia. The currently approved therapy includes cholinesterase inhibitors, NMDA-receptor antagonists and monoclonal antibodies. However, these medications were gradually discovered to be ineffective in removing the root of AD pathogenesis, having only symptomatic effects. Thus, the priority remains prevention and clarifying AD etiology. A better understanding of the neuroprotective mechanisms undertaken by specific genes is crucial to guide the design of novel therapeutic agents via selective ligands and precision medicine. In this review, we present a perspective of the physiological phase of the AD spectrum, of risk factors in AD with a focus on therapeutic approaches in three categories: neurotransmitters/ion modulations, peptide deposit control and aspecific treatments, followed by a discussion of treatment limitations. An overview of innovative strategies and non-pharmaceutical ancillary support is given.
Insights
Alzheimer's disease (AD) treatments offer symptomatic relief but don't address the cause. Understanding neuroprotective genes is key for developing effective Alzheimer's disease prevention and precision medicine strategies.
Area of Science:
- Neurodegenerative disease research
- Genetics and Alzheimer's disease
- Pharmacology and therapeutic strategies
Background:
- Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a leading cause of dementia, characterized by progressive neurodegeneration.
- Current therapies offer only symptomatic relief, failing to address AD pathogenesis.
- Clarifying AD etiology and enhancing neuroprotection are critical for effective interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the physiological aspects and risk factors of Alzheimer's disease.
- To analyze current therapeutic approaches, including neurotransmitter modulation, peptide deposit control, and non-specific treatments.
- To explore innovative strategies and non-pharmaceutical support for AD management.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on Alzheimer's disease pathophysiology and treatment.
- Categorization of therapeutic strategies into neurotransmitter/ion modulation, peptide deposit control, and aspecific treatments.
- Discussion of current treatment limitations and future directions.
Main Results:
- Approved AD therapies provide symptomatic benefits but do not halt disease progression.
- Understanding gene-specific neuroprotective mechanisms is essential for novel drug development.
- Limitations in current treatments highlight the need for innovative and personalized approaches.
Conclusions:
- Effective Alzheimer's disease management requires a shift towards prevention and etiological understanding.
- Precision medicine and targeted therapies hold promise for future AD treatment.
- Integrating innovative strategies and ancillary support may improve patient outcomes.
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