Author(s) :

Pranav Kalidindi.

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that profoundly impacts patients’ memory, cognition, and overall quality of life. Chronic stress is a substantial contributor to Alzheimer's patients' cognitive deterioration. The effects of stress on hippocampus function and dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis can lead to higher cortisol levels and is the link between stress and memory dysregulations. Moreover, acute and chronic stress have been linked to increased production of Amyloid Beta plaques and Tau Tangles, the primary pathological hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease. As a result, the cellular mechanisms of memory consolidation and storage are disrupted. This paper reviews ongoing research of how cellular, network and endocrine pathways in the brain are impeded by stress and links these findings to Alzheimer’s disease development and progression. Understanding the interplay between stress and the progression of Alzheimer’s disease can play a significant role in further development of research, disease-modifying treatments, and potential cures.