Experimental approaches to cognitive disturbance in Alzheimer's disease

Author(s): Davis, K. L.

Journal/Book: Harvard Rev Psychiatr. 1998; 6: 11830 Westline Industrial Dr, St Louis, MO 63146-3318. Mosby-Year Book Inc. 11-22.

Abstract: This paper reviews available and potential treatments for the cognitive disturbances associated with Alrheimer's disease. The neurochemical, neuropathological, and molecular-biological abnormalities associated with this disorder, as well as possible sites for pharmacological intervention, are discussed. These sites include genetic alterations in apolipoprotein E, amyloid precursor protein, and presenilin. Additionally, modification of amyloid processing, tau processing, and calcium regulation may have a role in future treatment. Intriguing epidemiological findings involving antiinflammatories, antioxidants, and estrogen for the cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease suggest the need for clinical trials of these agents. The current status of cholinesterase inhibitors, muscarinic receptor agonists, nicotine, and adrenergic and glutaminergic approaches to treatment are described.

Note: Review Samuels SC, Mt Sinai Med Ctr, Dept Psychiat, 1 Gustave L Levy Pl, Box 1230, New York,NY 10029 USA

Keyword(s): AMYLOID PRECURSOR PROTEIN; NERVE GROWTH-FACTOR; PLACEBO-CONTROLLED MULTICENTER; CHOLINERGIC DRUG-COMBINATIONS; DOUBLE-BLIND; MUSCARINIC RECEPTORS; APOLIPOPROTEIN-E; SENILE DEMENTIA; TRANSGENIC MICE; ACETYLCHOLINESTERASE INHIBITOR

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