Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer’s Disease: Mechanistic Insights,
Pathological Implications, and Emerging Therapeutic Strategies
Abstract
Neuroinflammation is increasingly recognized as a pivotal factor in the
pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), a neurodegenerative disorder
characterized by amyloid-beta plaques and tau neurofibrillary tangles.
Traditionally viewed as a secondary response to neuronal damage, recent
research suggests that neuroinflammation actively contributes to both
the initiation and progression of AD. Key mediators of neuroinflammation
are glial cells, particularly microglia and astrocytes. When
persistently activated, these cells release pro-inflammatory cytokines
such as interleukin-1β (IL-1β) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α),
exacerbating neuronal injury and promoting cognitive decline.
Additionally, dysfunction of the blood-brain barrier permits peripheral
immune cells to infiltrate the central nervous system, amplifying the
inflammatory response and accelerating disease progression. The
intricate interplay between neuroinflammation and AD pathology
underscores the potential of targeting inflammatory processes as a
therapeutic strategy. Current approaches involve anti-inflammatory
agents, modulation of microglial activation states, and lifestyle
interventions aimed at reducing systemic inflammation. Emerging
therapies focus on targeted interventions, including monoclonal
antibodies against pro-inflammatory mediators and inhibitors of
inflammasome activation. Nonetheless, significant challenges remain,
such as delineating the precise mechanisms by which neuroinflammation
influences AD pathology and identifying optimal timing for therapeutic
intervention. Addressing these challenges is critical for advancing
treatment options by mitigating the detrimental effects of chronic
neuroinflammation on neurodegeneration. Future research should
concentrate on elucidating the mechanistic pathways of neuroinflammation
in AD, developing targeted anti-inflammatory therapies, and enhancing
early diagnostic capabilities through reliable biomarkers, ultimately
aiming to alleviate the profound impact of this debilitating disease.