2026 American Academy of Neurology Autoimmune Abstract Website

Objective:

This review explores the significance of increasing pro-inflammatory cytokines that are found from the processes of both inflammaging and AD. Through correlations between increases in IL-6, TNF-alpha, and CRP, these markers may be potential targets for measurement in clinical practice in geriatric populations to catch the onset of AD earlier.

Background:

Inflammaging is defined as low-grade, chronic stress associated with increased age, leading to production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha), and C-reactive protein (CRP). Concurrently, Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the most common form of dementia worldwide, occurs within the same time frame and is associated with elevated levels of these cytokines as part of its neuroinflammatory pathogenesis.

Design/Methods:

A structured literature review was conducted using PubMed, combined with MeSH searches, and Embase. Using key terms such as “Alzheimer’s Disease,” “inflammation mediators,” and “inflammaging,” cross-sectional and longitudinal studies were found to assess the relationship between inflammatory markers and AD risk in geriatric populations.

Results:

Evidence suggests that IL-6 is associated with increased cognitive decline, while TNF-alpha and CRP do not play a significant role in pathogenesis. This review highlights the predictive potential of inflammatory markers in addition to current diagnostic tools, instead of only relying on physical manifestations and imaging.

Conclusions:

Routinely assessing inflammatory markers offers a promising adjunct to early screening protocols for AD. The recognition of inflammaging at its role in the pathogenesis of AD can prompt earlier interventions. Awareness of how inflammatory markers provide new insights is an important point for physicians. Integration of cytokine monitoring can improve geriatric care in all populations.