Alzheimer's Disease

The molecular origins of the disease are coming to light, suggesting several novel therapies

Vernon Ingram

Conclusions

In old age the brain does not work as well as it used to do. We forget keys and appointments; words hide on the tip of our tongue. Is this a slow form of Alzheimer's disease? Lurking in the backs of our minds, but not often discussed, is the idea that this disease is just a greatly accelerated version of "normal" brain aging. Maybe this would be a good thing, if proved true: If normal aging and Alzheimer's disease shared the same mechanism, then perhaps an Alzheimer's therapy could also treat the forgetfulness that everyone develops with age. It wouldn't help us live longer, but might help us live better!

Although nobody can predict the future, claiming that a cure for Alzheimer's disease is around the corner, we should be hopeful. Our fundamental knowledge of this disease has increased enormously in recent years through the hard work of many, many scientists and clinicians. This mechanistic understanding enables us to develop detailed new strategies to interrupt the disease. Some of these are described above, but who knows what else is waiting to be found? Serendipity is the most powerful scientific tool, and we must be ready to use whatever turns up.

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