The Role of Heat Shock Proteins in Alzheimer Disease: A Systematic Review

Background: Recent studies have shown that heat shock proteins (HSPs) play a role in pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Objectives: In this review article we investigated the role of HSPs in pathogenesis of cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. Data sources: We have reviewed publications from the electronic databases of Medline/PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, Embase, ISI Web of Knowledge, Biological Abstracts and Chemical Abstracts with keywords of Heat Shock Protein (HSP), Neurocognitive disorders, Alzheimer's disease and Dementia. Study eligibility criteria: After search of data basis with above keywords we found 337 papers published. Then we narrowed our findings to 40 articles and reviewed them. Results: Results of our study showed that heat shock proteins (HSPs) help refold or degrade mis-folded proteins, reduce abnormal protein accumulation and dysfunction of synapses, neuronal degeneration and gradual and continuous loss of cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease and improves the associated symptoms. Limitations: We reviewed only some electronic database and other literatures were not reviewed. Conclusion: Heat shock proteins (HSPs) have significant role in pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease and other causes of dementia.