Scientists have made a significant discovery in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University have identified more than 200 rogue proteins in the brain that may play a major role in triggering and worsening the devastating cognitive decline associated with the disease.
Until now, it was believed that clumps of amyloid and tau proteins were the main culprits behind Alzheimer’s symptoms. However, this new study suggests that there are many other misfolded proteins that could be contributing to the damage.
Misfolded proteins are those that have not taken on their correct three-dimensional shape. Unlike amyloids, which form large clumps, these hidden proteins do not stick together and can interfere with brain function.
The researchers conducted a study on 17 rats, finding that seven showed clear signs of cognitive impairment despite growing up in the same environment as the other 10. By examining over 2,500 types of protein in the brains associated with spatial learning and memory, they discovered that more than 200 proteins were misfolded in the cognitively impaired rats.
While the study was conducted on rats, it highlights a promising new area of research that could lead to better treatments and preventive measures for Alzheimer’s. Further studies are needed to determine whether the same misfolded proteins can cause the disease in humans, but the findings offer hope for understanding the molecular mechanisms behind this devastating condition.
Source: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14897001/Alzheimers-disease-study.html