Scientists discover link between proteins and Alzheimer's
Scientists discover link between proteins and Alzheimer's
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Monday, 22, Dec 2008 12:01
Researchers have discovered two proteins which work in tandem in the brain's blood vessels play a significant role in Alzheimer's disease.
A report published in the journal Nature Cell Biology today states that not only do the proteins lessen blood flow to the brain, they also reduce the rate at which the brain is able to remove amyloid beta – the protein which builds up in toxic quantities in patients with the disease.
The authors claim their study provides "hard evidence" directly linking two processes though to be at play in the disease – the reduction in brain blood flow and the build-up of amyloid beta.
However, they claim to have been surprised at the finding. "This is quite unexpected," said Berislav Zlokovic, senior author of the study, said.
"On the other hand, both of these processes are mediated by the smooth muscle cells along blood vessel walls, and we know that those are seriously compromised in patients with Alzheimer's disease, so perhaps we shouldn't be completely surprised."