What are the latest advancements and challenges in the comprehensive understanding and treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease?

Alzheimer's disease (AD), a very complex neuro-degenerative disease, presents a serious public health concern, especially with the growing number of aged population. This paper provides an overview of this neurodegenerative disease with special focus on its epidemiology, its pathophysiological and clinical characteristics, available tools for diagnostic and management, and the emergent trends in the area of research. A review of the available literature suggests an upwards surge in the incidences of AD in the developing countries. For example, China is expected to have the largest patient population by 2050, followed in India. Alzheimer’s disease includes cholinergic disfunction, deposition of amyloid-beta, hyperphosphorylation of tau protein, stress on oxidative functions and inflammation in neurons. The clinical symptoms of AD includes gradual but increasing loss of cognitive functions, behavioural changes and growing inability to perform daily routine.