Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common type of neurodegenerative disease and a health challenge with major social and economic consequences. In this review, we discuss the therapeutic potential of gamma stimulation in treating AD and delve into the possible mechanisms responsible for its positive effects. Recent studies reveal that it is feasible and safe to induce 40 Hz brain activity in AD patients through a range of 40 Hz multisensory and noninvasive electrical or magnetic stimulation methods. Although research into the clinical potential of these interventions is still in its nascent stages, these studies suggest that 40 Hz stimulation can yield beneficial effects on brain function, disease pathology, and cognitive function in individuals with AD. Specifically, we discuss studies involving 40 Hz light, auditory, and vibrotactile stimulation, as well as noninvasive techniques such as transcranial alternating current stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation. The precise mechanisms underpinning the beneficial effects of gamma stimulation in AD are not yet fully elucidated, but preclinical studies have provided relevant insights. We discuss preclinical evidence related to both neuronal and nonneuronal mechanisms that may be involved, touching upon the relevance of interneurons, neuropeptides, and specific synaptic mechanisms in translating gamma stimulation into widespread neuronal activity within the brain. We also explore the roles of microglia, astrocytes, and the vasculature in mediating the beneficial effects of gamma stimulation on brain function. Lastly, we examine upcoming clinical trials and contemplate the potential future applications of gamma stimulation in the management of neurodegenerative disorders.

中文翻译：

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视听伽马刺激治疗神经退行性疾病

阿尔茨海默病 (AD) 是最常见的神经退行性疾病类型，也是一种健康挑战，会带来重大社会和经济后果。在这篇综述中，我们讨论了伽马刺激在治疗 AD 中的治疗潜力，并深入探讨了其积极作用的可能机制。最近的研究表明，通过一系列 40 Hz 多感官和无创电或磁刺激方法诱导 AD 患者的 40 Hz 大脑活动是可行且安全的。尽管对这些干预措施的临床潜力的研究仍处于初级阶段，但这些研究表明 40 Hz 刺激可以对 AD 患者的大脑功能、疾病病理和认知功能产生有益的影响。具体来说，我们讨论涉及 40 Hz 光、听觉和振动触觉刺激的研究，以及经颅交流电刺激和经颅磁刺激等非侵入性技术。伽玛刺激对 AD 有益作用的确切机制尚未完全阐明，但临床前研究已经提供了相关见解。我们讨论了与可能涉及的神经元和非神经元机制相关的临床前证据，涉及中间神经元、神经肽和特定突触机制在将伽马刺激转化为大脑内广泛的神经元活动中的相关性。我们还探讨了小胶质细胞、星形胶质细胞和脉管系统在调节伽马刺激对大脑功能的有益影响中的作用。最后，我们研究即将进行的临床试验，并考虑伽马刺激在神经退行性疾病治疗中的潜在未来应用。