Alzheimer’s Disease: Pathogenesis and Therapeutics Advancements Targeting Potential Neurotransmitters and Neuronal Peptides

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is identified by progressive, irreversible dementia due to concurrent neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. The brain pathology of AD includes neurodegeneration, extracellular amyloid β plaque accumulation, and intracellular development of axonal tangles of the hyperphosphorylated protein tau. Tremendous scientific advancement in the past decades revealed more cellular and molecular aspects of AD leading to the emergence of major therapeutic targets, including acetylcholine esterase, N-methyl-d-aspartate receptor, and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptors. In addition, lifestyle modification, regular exercise, a Mediterranean diet pattern, and cognitive training is also well reported in its prevention. However, the idiopathic nature of AD and targeted therapies are still a matter of concern. This chapter outlines recent advances in brain pathology and different therapeutic aspects of AD.