Alzheimer’s Disease—Molecular Defect, Public Perceptions and Stigma in South Africa

Alzheimer’s disease is a neurodegenerative disease resulting in gross damage of brain areas mainly involved in cognitive function manifesting as cognitive impairment and memory loss. This chapter describes the key molecular hallmarks that are associated with the formation of amyloid beta and hyper-phosphorylated tau, with their effects on mitochondrial and tubulin function and the role of autophagy in bulk protein degradation, the clearing of toxic protein aggregates and its failure and dysfunction in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease. The chapter also discusses public perceptions of the disease and associated stigma which may affect integration into society. In doing so, we highlight not only the importance of science communication, but also the disconnect between public perceptions and scientific assessments of Alzheimer’s disease.