The Role Of Gamma Secretase And Its Effects On The Disease...

There has been much research over the last 30 years on the amyloid cascade hypothesis leading to substantial supporting evidence and clinical trials. A phase I and II study has shown that the inhibition of gamma secretase by semagacestat had caused a reduction in beta amyloid synthesis in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease (Doody et al. 2013). Gamma secretase is a protease complex involved in the processing of amyloid precursor protein. Unfortunately, a phase III trial using semagacestat was stopped after worsening of cognition and the ability to do day-to-day activities was seen (Doody et al. 2013). This promising drug showed no benefit to participants with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease for it did not slow the progression of the disease. There was also more skin and subcutaneous-tissue disorders and more cancers when taking this drug (Doody et al. 2013). Due to this failed clinical trial and many others, some scientists are starting to question if amyloid is the direct cause of Alzheimer’s disease. Some scientists believe beta-amyloid accumulation might just be a downstream effect of Alzheimer’s. This observation has been seen in aging individuals without this disease. There have been a few alternative theories proposed to explain what directly causes Alzheimer’s. One called the Inverse Warburg effect focuses on age-induced energy deficiency seen in mitochondrial activity of neurons (Demetrius et al. 2015). Energy, produce mainly by mitochondria, isShow MoreRelatedAlzheimer s Disease And Its Effects On The American Population Essay1636 Words   |  7 PagesAlzheimer’s disease is one of the most devastating degenerative diseases affecting the American population. It is one form of dementia. Dementia is a group of conditions characterized by impairment of at least two brain functions, such as memory loss and judgment. Symptoms include forgetfulness, limited social skills, and thinking abilities so impaired that it interferes with daily functioning. Alzheimer has very few treatment options even though it is increasing globally. Recently environmentalRead MorePreventative Methods Of Alzheimers Disease1824 Words   |  8 PagesMethods of Alzheimer’s disease Now that the disparity between Alzheimer’s disease prevalence in men and women, as well as the different rates of incidence in different countries has been established, it is now applicable to discuss what can be done to prevent this disease. There are many ways that researchers believe people can use to prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Studies by researchers have found that cannabinoids could stimulate the brain cells and slow the progression of the disease. Conversely, someRead MoreAstrocytes Case Study6698 Words   |  27 PagesRegulation of astrocyte pathology by fluoxetine prevents the deterioration of Alzheimer phenotypes in an APP/PS1 mouse model Abstract Studies have implicated astrocytic dysfunction in Alzheimers disease (AD). However, the role of astrocytes in the pathophysiology and treatment of the disease is poorly characterized. Here, we identified astrocytes as independent key factors involved in several Alzheimer-like phenotypes in an APP/PS1 mouse model, including amyloid pathology, altered neuronal and synaptic