Development of the multi-target-directed acetylcholinesterase inhibitors based on tacrine

Acetylcholinesterase is an important target for anti-Alzheimer's disease now.Much attention has been paid to the development of tacrine dimeric or hybrid compounds.The design strategy is transforming merely interacting with the two binding sites of acetylcholinesterase to get more activity and selectivity into the multi-target-directed function for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Herein,the tacrine dimeric or hybrid compounds development and the prospect for the treatment of AD have been reviewed.