Immune Modulation in Alzheimer’s Disease: From Pathogenesis to Immunotherapy
Sahar Balkhi, Anna Di Spirito, Alessandro Poggi, Lorenzo Mortara
Abstract
Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder and the leading cause of dementia, affecting a significant proportion of the elderly population. AD is characterized by cognitive decline and functional impairments due to pathological hallmarks like amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) composed of hyperphosphorylated tau. Microglial activation, chronic neuroinflammation, and disruptions in neuronal communication further exacerbate the disease. Emerging research suggests that immune modulation could play a key role in AD treatment given the significant involvement of neuroinflammatory processes. This review focuses on recent advancements in immunotherapy strategies aimed at modulating immune responses in AD, with a specific emphasis on microglial behavior, amyloid clearance, and tau pathology. By exploring these immunotherapeutic approaches, we aim to provide insights into their potential to alter disease progression and improve patient outcomes, contributing to the evolving landscape of AD treatment.