Developments of research on Alzheimer's Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

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, â€Å"the process that results in the accumulation of   AÃŽ ² 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 ÃŽ ² peptide (AÃŽ ²) metabolism and various AÃŽ ² equilibria present both on the internal and external sides of the central nervous system, are not fully clear as yet. Moreover, physiological AÃŽ ² 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- AÃŽ ² 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 AÃŽ ² in free versus protein-bound form, as well as monomeric versus aggregated AÃŽ ², will be key to identifying the mechanisms forming the basis for efficacy and safety of the