Neuro-inflammation and anti-inflammatory treatment options for Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease characterized by progressive memory loss and dementia. The pathological characteristics of AD include the deposition of amyloid beta (Aβ), neurofibrillary tangles, and neuronal loss. There is evidence showing the involvement of inflammation in AD, including activated microglia within and surrounding senile plaques. Epidemiological studies suggest the use of anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce incidence of AD. However, clinical trials with anti-inflammatory drugs have not been successful.