Alzheimer’s disease affects millions across the globe. This infamous disease impairs cognitive abilities and corrodes precious memories. The disease originates from the buildup of amyloid plaques in the brain .
However, a noteworthy study by scientists at the Technical University of Munich (TUM) unveils the cause to be a more stealthy and tiny menace - amyloid beta (Aβ) monomer. If this is targeted early on, it has the potential to stop this devastating disease in its tracks before it even begins. The tiny protein fragments grow and clump together to unleash chaos on the brain.
They are the foundation of the bigger amyloid plaques. Before the plaques even develop, Aβ monomers pose a significant threat and cause damage by themselves. The new origin has opened up new avenues for treating Alzheimer’s.
ALSO READ: Should you get tested for an Alzheimer’s gene? Targeting the real root cause Earlier, the primary focus was concentrated on amyloid plaques that form later in the prognosis. But now, the researchers are shifting their treatment target to combat the Aβ monomers, which develop at the early stage of the disease. To counter the monomers, researchers prepared a protein fibre called an anticalin.
The anticalin, also named H1GA, behaves like a molecular sponge, absorbing the dangerous Aβ monomers before they transition into concerning levels. By stopping these monomers from clumping together, the researchers aim to prevent Alzheimer’s from taking hold. By taking nec.