Affiliation:
1. Laboratory of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Tokyo University of Science, 2641 Yamazaki, Noda 278-8510, Chiba, Japan
Abstract
Alzheimer’s disease (AD)—the most common cause of dementia in the elderly—is characterized by progressive memory loss and β-amyloid protein (Aβ) accumulation in the brain. Recently, loneliness was found to be a high risk factor for AD, and social isolation has become a major cause of AD. AD. Oxytocin (OXT), the main hormone involved in social bonding, has been implicated in social interactions, notably in building trust and relationships. Moreover, social isolation or social enrichment modulates the activation of neurons related to OXT. Recently, we reported that OXT reverses learning and memory impairment in AD animal models. Based on the limited number of studies currently available, OXT might be a therapeutic target for AD. Further studies are necessary in order to better understand the role of oxytocin in AD. In this review, we described the relationships between OXT, AD, and social interaction.
Funder
Grant-in-Aid for JSPS Fellows
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