Commonalities between Copper Neurotoxicity and Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease, a highly prevalent form of dementia, targets neuron function beginning from the hippocampal region and expanding outwards. Alzheimer's disease is caused by elevated levels of heavy metals, such as lead, zinc, and copper. Copper is found in many areas of daily life, raising a concern as to how this metal and Alzheimer's disease are related. Previous studies have not identified the common pathways between excess copper and Alzheimer's disease etiology. Our review corroborates that both copper and Alzheimer's disease target the hippocampus, cerebral cortex, cerebellum, and brainstem, affecting motor skills and critical thinking. Additionally, A beta plaque formation was analyzed beginning from synthesis at the APP parent protein site until A beta plaque formation was completed. Structural changes were also noted. Further analysis revealed a relationship between amyloid-beta plaques and copper ion concentration. As copper ion levels increased, it bound to the A beta monomer, expediting the plaque formation process, and furthering neurodegeneration. These conclusions can be utilized in the medical community to further research on the etiology of Alzheimer's disease and its relationships to copper and other metal-induced neurotoxicity.

Automated summary

Alzheimer's disease affects neuron function and is caused by elevated levels of heavy metals such as lead, zinc, and copper. Both copper and Alzheimer's disease target specific areas in the brain, impacting motor skills and critical thinking. Studies have shown a relationship between copper ion concentration and the formation of amyloid-beta plaques, furthering neurodegeneration.