A Review of the Complex Roles of Glial Cells in Alzheimer’s Disease and Potential Glial-Oriented Therapeutic Targets

Abstract

The pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is very complicated and not well-understood. As more and more studies are performed with regards to this disease, new insights are coming to light. Much of the research in AD so far has been very neuron-oriented however, recent studies suggest that certain glial cells i.e. microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and NG2 glia are linked to the pathogenesis of AD and may offer several potential therapeutic targets in the long-standing battle against AD. Glial cells are responsible for maintaining homeostasis (i.e. concentration of ions and neurotransmitters) within the neuronal environment of the central nervous system (CNS) and are crucial to the integrity of neurons. This review explores the (1) role of glial cells in AD pathogenesis, (2) complex functionalities of the components involved and (3) potential therapeutic targets that it could eventuate leading to a better quality of life for AD patients.