Tauopathy

Tauopathy is a group of neurodegenerative diseases linked to the accumulation of tau protein in the central nervous system, including the brain and spinal cord. Tauopathies affect a wide range of age, gender, and ethnic groups. Examples of tauopathies include Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia. In healthy brains, tau proteins are produced and broken down in balance; this allows neurons, the cells of the brain, to communicate effectively. In tauopathies, however, the tau proteins can clump together forming tangles. These tangles disrupt the normal communication system and lead to nerve degeneration and loss of brain function. There is currently no cure for tauopathies, and many of them are progressive and degenerative, meaning that they worsen over time. However, researchers are working to better understand the mechanisms of these diseases. Many investigators are focused on developing treatments which halt or slow down the progression of the disease. One current treatment approach is the use of medications to block certain aspects of the disease process. This approach generally involves medications which block the ability of tau proteins to form tangles. This may help to reduce the amount of damage caused to the brain. Additionally, some medications can reduce inflammation in the brain, which contributes to tauopathy symptoms. Recent research has also focused on the development of gene therapy to target tau proteins. This involves introducing genes which code for the production of beneficial proteins into the brain directly. This may lead to improved functioning of certain neural pathways and provide potential benefits for those with tauopathies. Overall, tauopathies pose challenging diseases to treat and manage. As research continues to uncover the causes and mechanisms of tauopathies, the hope is that new treatments will become available. For now, those affected by these conditions must manage their symptoms with the help of supportive care.