Groundbreaking new research published in the Science medical journal has shed light on the cause of brain cell death in Alzheimer’s patients. The study reveals that these cells are undergoing a process called necroptosis, a form of cell suicide.
The research, carried out by scientists from University College London and KU Leuven in Belgium, involved genetically modifying mice to produce high levels of abnormal amyloid. Human brain cells were then inserted into the mice’s brains, and drugs were tested on the animals to reduce amyloid buildup.
The study found that the brain cells in Alzheimer’s patients are experiencing necroptosis due to a dangerous accumulation of abnormal brain proteins, which clog neural pathways and ultimately lead to cell death. These proteins, known as amyloid and tau, form plaques that force the brain cells to kill themselves.
Amyloid and tau build-ups transform into a molecule called MEG3, which is a crucial regulator of skeletal muscle development. Blocking MEG3 proved to impede brain cell death, leading researchers to believe that this discovery could potentially lead to the development of new drugs for Alzheimer’s treatment.
The findings of this study have been hailed as a significant breakthrough in understanding why brain cells die in Alzheimer’s disease. Professor Bart De Strooper, a member of the UK’s Dementia Research Institute, described the research as “important and interesting.” He explained that it provides strong evidence of the specific suicide pathway involved in Alzheimer’s disease.
However, scientists caution that further research and testing are required before any potential treatment can be developed. Professor Tara Spire-Jones of the University of Edinburgh highlighted the significance of the study in addressing the gap in Alzheimer’s research but emphasized the need for ongoing research to determine the effectiveness of this approach.
Alzheimer’s disease affects millions of people worldwide, and understanding the mechanisms behind brain cell death is crucial for developing effective treatments. This groundbreaking study offers promising insights into the underlying causes of Alzheimer’s and paves the way for further research in this field.