Tau and β-Amyloid Relevant Pathology as a Central Therapeutic Target in Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the leading cause of dementia, responsible for approximately 60-70% of cases globally. AD is a gradually progressive neurodegenerative disorder that is characterized by widespread deposition of β-amyloid (Aβ) plaques, followed by aggregation of tau protein in the neocortex, neurodegeneration, and cognitive decline. Within these complex pathological interactions, Aβ and tau proteins, together with astrogliosis, neuroinflammation, and other factors, play a key role in the development of clinical AD. Accumulating evidence indicates that the formation of protein oligomers, followed by their aggregation into pathological fibrils, constitutes an early and critical step in the pathogenesis of the disease. Specific pathological proteins are often treated as biomarkers of particular diseases because their presence, concentration, or altered structure reflects an underlying disease process. It is well established that the Aβ and tau proteins are the key hallmarks of AD, and their mutual interaction may significantly influence the pathology of the disease. Early diagnosis is crucial for maximizing the therapeutic benefits of currently available symptomatic treatments, which can alleviate symptoms and modestly delay clinical deterioration in patients with AD. This review highlights the mechanisms involved in protein-dependent neurodegeneration and describes both traditional and novel approaches for the cure of AD. The most important aspect of this publication is the integration of the two key proteins: Aβ and tau, and the resulting shift toward a new therapeutic approach.