Alzheimer's disease, a terrible neurodegenerative disorder, has impacted countless lives since its discovery. Its story begins with Dr. Alois Alzheimer, a German psychiatrist and neuropathologist, who in 1906 presented a case that would later immortalize his name. His patient, Auguste Deter, exhibited symptoms of memory loss, disorientation, and unpredictable behavior—symptoms now recognized as hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease.
After Deter's death, Dr. Alzheimer examined her brain, identifying two distinctive pathological features: amyloid plaques, abnormal protein clumps, and neurofibrillary tangles, twisted strands of another protein. His findings were published in 1907, and the term "Alzheimer's disease" was coined by his colleague, Dr. Emil Kraepelin, in 1910.
Initially, Alzheimer's was considered rare and associated with younger patients, under 65. The term "senile dementia" was more commonly used for older individuals with similar symptoms. However, as life expectancy increased, it became evident that Alzheimer's was a significant cause of dementia in the elderly.
In the 1960s, researchers confirmed that amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles were present in older dementia patients, leading to broader recognition of Alzheimer's disease. Advances in medical imaging, such as PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans in the 1980s, allowed observation of these features in living patients, advancing understanding and improving diagnosis and treatment.
Despite these advancements, fully understanding Alzheimer's remains a challenge. The exact cause is not fully understood, though it likely involves genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. The APOE-e4 gene is a significant risk factor. Recent research efforts have focused on finding treatments and preventive measures, which is what we are working towards here at Nyural.
As the global population ages, the prevalence of Alzheimer's disease is expected to rise, making it a critical public health issue. Ongoing research, increased awareness, and improved diagnostic techniques offer hope for better management and eventual prevention. The history of Alzheimer's disease is a testament to the relentless pursuit of knowledge and the quest to alleviate human suffering.