Alzheimer’s disease Flashcards
risk factors for Alzheimer’s
Age is major risk factor
Genetic mutations → early onset AD
symptoms of Alzheimer’s
Memory loss, disorientation/ confusion, language problems, personality changes, poor judgement
name 3 theories for Alzheimer’s
Beta-amyloid (Aβ)
Tau aggregation
Inflammation
where is amyloid pre cursor protein normally found
neuornal membrane
describe the Beta-amyloid (Aβ) hypothesis
β-secretase incorrectly process APP→ β-amyloid plaques
what do tau proeins do and where are they found
Soluble protein present in axons
Important for assembly & stability of microtubules
describe the Tau aggregation hypothesis
Hyperphosphorylated tau → neuronal instability/toxicity
+ microtubule instability
what property of hyperphosphorylated tau makes it have this effect
Hyperphosphorylated tau is insoluble
self-aggregates to form neurofibrillary tangles
describe the inflammation hypothesis
inflammation leads to increase activity of microglial cells
dereaese levels of neuroprotective proteins
Increase phagocytosis + inflammatory mediators
name to drug types used to treat Alzheimer’s
Anticholinesterases
NMDA receptor blocker
how do Anticholinesterases work
Block cholinesterases → can’t break
down ACh → ACh in cleft for longer →
prolonged effects
what severity of Alzheimer’s are anticholinesterases used for
moderate Alzheimer’s
symptoms relief
give 3 examples of antcholinesterases
Donepezil
rivastigmine
galantamine
describe the pharmocology of Donepezil
reversible cholinesterase inhibitor
long duration of action
long plasma half life
describe the pharmocology of Rivastigmine
psuedo-reversible AChE and BChE
half life = 8 hours
