New Frontiers in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease Treatments

Abstract

Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease are common neurodegenerative diseases mostly seen in elderly people however there are early-onset cases from genetic mutations as well. The different neurodegenerative diseases and their symptoms and causes are discussed to get a better understanding. Both diseases have amyloid plaques, neurofibrillary tangles, and Lewy Bodies. There is no complete cure for them despite extensive research and present-day treatment helps in treating only the symptoms. Diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease is difficult; it can only be confirmed through histological study after death. Methods like cerebrospinal fluid tests and imaging scans are being studied to help find the disease earlier. Current medicines for Alzheimer’s work by stopping/reducing the production of choline-acetyltransferase. To restore dopamine levels in the nervous system, Levodopa is given in Parkinson's disease. Treatment options currently available are not very effective and do not prevent the progression of the disease. Future studies should examine new drug-related treatments, which could mean using existing drugs in new combinations or looking for new treatments.