Developments of research on Alzheimer's - Essay Example

The relationship of neuropathological features of Alzheimer’s Disease to the emergence of cognitive deficits, is not fully understood currently. However, “the process that results in the accumulation of  Aβ as amyloid triggers the complex pathological changes ultimately leading to cognitive impairments” (Sun, 2007, p.40), known as the ‘amyloid cascade’ hypothesis. Lichtien and Mohajeri (2008) state that the high morbidity, socioeconomic costs, and lack of specific treatments indicate the importance of research on Alzheimer’s Disease.

Evidence from Lichtien and Mohajeri’s (2008) research on the efficacy of anti-amyloid immunization strategies, indicates that they serve as effective protective mechanisms against Alzheimer’s Disease. However, the underlying mechanisms of action of therapeutic antibodies, particularly their impact on the complex amyloid β peptide (Aβ) metabolism and various Aβ equilibria present both on the internal and external sides of the central nervous system, are not fully clear as yet. Moreover, physiological Aβ metabolism is not fully understood because of inadequate analytical tools to characterize and quantify treatment effects.

Further, biomedical research is aimed at developing predictable therapies minimizing the risk of adverse effects such as brain inflammation and/ or hemorrhage caused by anti- Aβ immunization protocols. The researchers found that standard Enzyme Linked Immune Sorbant Assay (ELISA) protocols are inadequate in rational drug design, and there is a requirement for more complex analytical tools to be developed and applied. Tests ensuring greater reliability in the assessments of Aβ in free versus protein-bound form, as well as monomeric versus aggregated Aβ, will be key to identifying the mechanisms forming the basis for efficacy and safety of the