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CNS Drugs
Published in: CNS Drugs 12/2009

01-12-2009 | Leading Article

Role of Infection in the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease

Implications for Treatment

Authors: Prof. Clive Holmes, Darren Cotterell

Published in: CNS Drugs | Issue 12/2009

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Abstract

While our understanding of the neuropathology of Alzheimer’s disease continues to grow, its pathogenesis remains a subject of intense debate. Genetic mutations contribute to a minority of early-onset autosomal dominant cases, but most cases are of either late-onset familial or sporadic form. CNS infections, most notably herpes simplex virus type 1, Chlamydophila pneumoniae and several types of spirochetes, have been previously suggested as possible aetiological agents in the development of sporadic Alzheimer’s disease but with little consistent evidence. However, peripheral infections may have a role to play in accelerating neurodegeneration in Alzheimer’s disease by activating already primed microglial cells within the CNS. Potential pharmacological interventions could aim at modification of this peripheral inflammatory response through targeting various agents involved in this inflammatory pathway. However, benefit could also be gained clinically through the meticulous detection, treatment and prevention of infections in individuals either alone or in combination with anti-inflammatory therapy.
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Metadata
Title
Role of Infection in the Pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Implications for Treatment
Authors
Prof. Clive Holmes
Darren Cotterell
Publication date
01-12-2009
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
CNS Drugs / Issue 12/2009
Print ISSN: 1172-7047
Electronic ISSN: 1179-1934
DOI
https://doi.org/10.2165/11310910-000000000-00000

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