The role of the Locus Coeruleus in depression in Alzheimer’s disease

Depression, one of many common neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPS) seen in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), frequently predisposes the onset of cognitive deficits. NPS are often reported to cause the most suffering in patients and their loved ones so understanding their cause could lead to treatments that afford a better quality of life. The Locus coeruleus (LC) has strong links to depression and, being one of the first areas to show AD pathology, could be integral to understanding this NPS‐AD link. Alongside a natural LC neuron loss with age, AD causes its neurodegeneration reducing the LC’s neuroprotective capabilities and control of inflammatory pathways. Examination of the LC, inflammation and depressive phenotype could offer insights into future treatments.