The oxidative stress hypothesis in Alzheimer's disease.

Oxidative stress may be involved in many somatic and psychiatric pathological states including dementia. The hypothesis of oxidative stress involvement in dementia is supported by much scientific data through biochemical, genetic and molecular studies. Thus, there are many reports of an increased level of the markers for oxidative damage, alterations in the specific activity of the antioxidant system, mutations in specific genes, mitochondrial disturbances and also several connections between oxidative stress and amyloid plaques. Despite these evidence and clinical approaches in using antioxidant therapy in dementia treatment, studies have failed to prove a clear benefit for antioxidant treatment in dementia. Hence, there is a need for further research regarding antioxidant therapy in very early stages of dementia.