Photo from BBC News
New research shows that a protein that is normally in our brains somehow changes into a rogue protein and triggers formation of protein tangles which are linked to Alzheimer's Disease.
This protein normally plays a role in our nerve cells functioning properly, but when changed to the rogue form, can spread to healthy cells in the brain. In this latest study, researchers, led by a team from University Hospital, Basel, extracted sections of brain from mice expressing a mutant form of human tau protein. These extracts were injected into specific regions in the brains of healthy mice. An analysis then showed the formation and spread of tangles had occurred.
This research has increased the knowledge of how Alzheimer's Disease spreads in the brain, which just adds to the hope of future treatments and possible cures.
According to Dr Susanne Sorensen, head of research at the Alzheimer's Society, "There is still so much we do not understand about the changes in tau that lead to tangle formation in humans and, eventually, widespread brain cell death."
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Any research that provides additional insight into Alzheimer’s is critical to finding a cure.
It is also important for patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s to consider participating in clinical studies. One such study is the ICARA (Bapi) Study, whose goal is to explore if an investigational drug, called Bapineuzumab, can help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease. Clinical studies that test new treatments are the best chance we have for fighting this disease. Patients and families affected by Alzheimer’s can visit www.icarastudy.com to see if they might be eligible to enroll.
Thanks for your comment and information!
My name is Kathy and I am 39. I am the full time caregiver to my Dad who has Alzheimer's and lives with me.
In addition to Dad, I have a full time job, 3 dogs, my love of 12 years David and his 14 year old daughter. I get overwhelmed a lot but try to find the humor if I can.
I am writing a blog which shows the lighter side of caring for someone with dementia.
www.KnowItAlz.com
Please pass this link along to anyone you feel would enjoy it.
Thanks!
Kathy
Thanks for your comment and further information, which may be helpful to families searching for help.
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