Gene Therapy And The Treatment Of Alzheimer Disease

Abstract This paper discusses the use of gene therapy in the treatment of Alzheimer Disease. It is an irreversible, progressive brain disease. Current gene therapy interventions are experimental. However, the use of genetic therapeutic drugs has gained momentum in the treatment of other illnesses. Scientists are currently researching in how to use stem cells in the treatment of Alzheimer Disease. There are still some challenges with regards to genetic therapy. These need to be addressed. Despite this, genetic therapy should not be viewed with fear. It offers hope to Alzheimer patients. As such, it should be embraced. The government also needs to ensure that scientists use the technology appropriately. Researchers also need support in terms†¦show more content†¦It is now being adopted as an option for treating Alzheimer Disease, although it still elicits controversies. This paper illustrates the advantages and disadvantages of using gene therapy to treat Alzheimer Disease. This will, hopefully, make people understand how gene therapy works towards treating the diseases and the effects. This will make people appreciate and embrace it. It is more like a second chance to life for all Alzheimer patients. Alzheimer Disease is the most common cause of dementia in the world. Additionally, it is the sixth leading cause of death in America. By 2012, the payments for care or Alzheimer patients had reached $200 billion. Alzheimer disease is an age related neurodegenerative disease. It is characterized by forgetfulness, speech impairments, and depression (NIH 2011). In later stages one experience s difficulty in speaking, walking, and swallowing. During diagnosis the patient’s medical and family history is obtained. This also includes psychiatric history, cognitive history, and behavioral changes (NIH 2011). The physician performs cognitive tests, physical tests, and neurologic examinations. Patients may undergo MRI scans to identify brain changes. The cause of Alzheimer disease is not known. However, scientists believe it is caused by an interaction of many factors coupled with brain changes (NIH 2011). One develops amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles coupled with the loss of connections between nerve cells, or