Genesis of Alzheimer's disease

Our understanding of the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) had advanced rapidly, particularly in the area of genetics. Clinical trials of agents that offer the promise of going beyond symptomatic treatment to actually slowing the progression of disease, perhaps by enhancing the viability of neurons, are under way. Most of the ideas for therapeutic approaches that may slow progression of disease have come from a combination of epidemiologic and basic science observations. Anti-inflammatory agents, nicotine, estrogens, and free radical scavengers are major areas of inquiry. In addition to being a biological condition of considerable complexity, AD is also challenging from a social and cultural perspective. An appreciation of the changes occurring in our scientific and clinical environments may lead to building more effective bridges between science and society and to better diagnostic and therapeutic approaches to AD.