Regional neuronal loss in aging and alzheimer’s disease: A brief review

Abstract

It is widely recognized that regional neuronal loss occurs during normal aging and that excessive neuronal loss in specific regions is one hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Modern counting techniques have started to better define the degree of neuronal loss in aging and AD. Although there is some overlap with regions affected during aging, it is clear that Alzheimer’s disease represents a specific entity. By determining the regions and types of neurons that are vulnerable we can hope to better understand the causes and processes of normal aging and Alzheimer’s disease, as well as develop potential therapies. © 1994 Academic Press. All rights reserved.