Glial Cell Biology and Their Multifaceted Functions in Alzheimer's Disease

Abstract

Although the pathophysiology of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is exceedingly complex and poorly understood, the illness is nonetheless of great interest to the scientific community. Recent advances in AD research have allowed for the possibility that further treatment advantages might be found, which would assist patients all around the world. However, recent studies suggest that glial cells, such as microglia, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes, and oligodendrocyte progenitor cells (NG2 glia), are linked to the pathogenesis of AD and may offer several potential therapeutic targets against AD. Previous research on AD has focused primarily on neurons. Glial cells are essential to the structural integrity of neurons and are necessary for regulating homeostasis (concentration of ions, neurotransmitters) within the central nervous system. This chapter investigates the following topics: (i) the function of glial cells in the pathogenesis of AD; (ii) the intricate functions of the constituent parts; and (iii) prospective therapeutic targets that may one day improve the quality of life for AD patients.