Effect of metal ions on Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a degenerative disease of the nervous system. The typical pathological changes of AD are Aß deposition, neurofibrillary tangles, neuron loss, and chronic inflammation. The balance of metal ions is essential for numerous physiological functions, especially in the central nervous system. More studies showed that metal ions participate in the development of AD. However, the involvement of metal ions in AD is controversial. Thus, we reviewed articles about the relationship between metal ions and AD and discussed some contradictory reports in order to better understand the role of metal ions in AD.