The amyloid-β peptide and its role in Alzheimer's disease

Amyloid formation plays a central role in the cause and progression of Alzheimer's disease. The major component of this amyloid is the amyloid-β (Aβ) peptide, which is currently the subject of intense study. This review discusses some recent studies in the area of Aβ synthesis, purification and structural analysis. Also discussed are proposed mechanisms for Aβ-induced neurotoxicity and some recent advances in the development of Aβ-related therapeutic strategies. Copyright © 2001 European Peptide Society and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.