β-Amyloid: the key peptide in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease

The amyloid beta peptide (A beta) is a critical initiator that triggers the progression of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) via accumulation and aggregation, of which the process may be caused by A beta overproduction or perturbation clearance. A beta is generated from amyloid precursor protein through sequential cleavage of and gamma-secretases while A beta removal is dependent on the proteolysis beta- and lysosome degradation system. Here, we overviewed the biogenesis and toxicity of A beta as well as the regulation of Po production and clearance. Moreover, we also summarized the animal models correlated with A beta that are essential in AD research. In addition, we discussed current immunotherapeutic approaches targeting A beta to give some clues for exploring the more potentially efficient drugs for treatment of AD.