Genetically Engineered Animal Models of Alzheimer's Disease

The application of transgenic research has proven to be a powerful and popular tool for investigating the contribution of specific genes known or suspected to be involved in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. Many different experimental approaches have been pursued in an effort to mimic one or more of the numerous and diverse features characterizing Alzheimer's disease. Results have been variable but not without successes. Some of the cardinal hallmarks of this disorder have been recapitulated through the manipulation of a single gene, providing information on the interrelationship between several pathological events. Also, through the generation of such transgenic animals, potential models are being established for this disease that will be valuable for development of intervention strategies.