TAU-BASED THERAPEUTICS IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE: WHERE WE ARE AND WHAT LIES AHEAD

Abstract

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is an age-related neurodegenerative condition clinically defined by progressive memory loss and cognitive impairment. It currently affects over 47 million people worldwide, a figure projected to exceed 131 million by 2050. AD is the leading cause of dementia, accounting for approximately 60–80% of all diagnosed cases. Sporadic Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form, occurs in 10–50% of individuals over the age of 65. Its development is influenced by a wide range of factors, including aging, lifestyle choices (such as diet, exercise, education, and cognitive activity), immune system decline, chronic inflammation, infections (both chronic and latent), vascular dysfunction, and sleep disturbances. Recent findings also suggest a possible link between gut microbiota, ischemic events, and AD pathogenesis.