However, Tau R406W and Aβ42 exert different effects on the expression of the pre-autophagy gene, Hook, and a gene involved in the last step of autophagy, Cathepsin D. We conclude that although both Tau R406W and Aβ42 can alter the process of autophagy during AD, it seems that they act independently, through different mechanisms. Here, CTSD is linked to Alzheimer disease.