Researchers at DZNE discovered that a neuron's structure is remodeled to generate its axon, which breaks symmetry and forms a single long extension. The process occurs through a zipper-like mechanism involving Arp2/3 protein complex, driving rhythmic shape-shifting in the cell.
A study by DZNE shows that smartphone-based memory tests can detect subtle cognitive decline in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) more quickly than conventional testing. This approach has the potential to accelerate clinical trials for new dementia drugs and be used in routine care.
A study published in Nature Communications identified over 50 previously unknown genes that affect lipid composition in the human body. These findings may provide a better understanding of aging processes and pathological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, diabetes, and cardiovascular dysfunctions.
A study published in Science Advances reveals that neuronal hyperactivity triggered by rogue antibodies is a key driver of the severe autoimmune brain disorder IgLON5 encephalitis. The research also highlights similarities between this condition and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting potential therapeutic targets.
Researchers at DZNE discovered complex, situation-dependent interactions between glioblastoma cells and microglia in the brain. The study found that microglial activity changes as tumors spread, influencing containment and spread of the disease.
Researchers at DZNE identified five particularly affected cell types in the motor cortex, which are equally susceptible to ALS and FTD. The study used molecular fingerprinting to analyze human tissue samples and found that excitatory cells are primarily affected by the disease.
Researchers found elevated pTau levels in individuals with transthyretin amyloidosis and immunoglobulin light-chain amyloidosis, suggesting a new diagnostic approach for systemic amyloidosis. The findings may facilitate earlier detection and help confirm suspected cases.
Researchers found NfL levels increase with age in various animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles. The protein can help assess biological age and predict life expectancy across species.
Scientists have observed changes in brain cells' signal transmission during learning processes, shedding light on the brain's adaptability. The study found that axon initial segments, responsible for generating electrical signals, can lengthen or shorten in response to experiences, influencing neuronal activity.
A study published in Alzheimer's & Dementia found that specially qualified nurses with extended roles can measurably improve the care of people with dementia living at home. The approach reduced unmet needs more effectively than standard care and improved the quality of life for affected individuals.
A study published in Science Advances found that individuals with 'subjective cognitive decline' (SCD), a risk factor for Alzheimer's disease, performed worse on navigation tasks compared to those without SCD. The researchers hope this could lead to more sensitive testing methods for early diagnosis and drug studies.
Research at DZNE suggests that immune response plays a significant role in Alzheimer's disease, causing olfactory dysfunctions by attacking neuronal fibers. This may enable the development of early diagnosis and treatment methods.
Researchers found that the primary somatosensory cortex, responsible for processing sensory information, has a layered structure that ages differently. The middle and upper layers remain stable or even thicken with age, while the lower layers show age-related degeneration, providing evidence for neuroplasticity.
A novel AI-based approach identifies a distinct physicochemical signature near the cleavage site of gamma-secretase substrates, revealing dynamic properties essential for molecular recognition. The study highlights the potential of this methodology to improve understanding of gamma-secretase's role in diseases and aid drug development.
Lars Lannfelt's pioneering research on Alzheimer's disease led to the development of lecanemab, a first-ever disease-modifying drug in EU. The €60,000 Hartwig Piepenbrock-DZNE Prize honors his contributions to understanding Alzheimer's and slowing its progression.
A new computer model based on artificial intelligence is being developed to help doctors treat stroke patients. The model will use data from the German Stroke Registry and local brain images to predict long-term outcomes and potential complications, enabling doctors to make informed decisions about therapy.
A study has identified an early blood marker for hereditary Alzheimer's disease, beta-synuclein, which can detect neurodegeneration up to 11 years before dementia symptoms. This biomarker could help with early diagnosis and treatment, improving the potential of new medicines for Alzheimer's.
A study found that intermittent fasting increases sex drive in male mice by lowering serotonin levels, which is linked to tryptophan deficiency. The researchers suggest that similar mechanisms may exist in humans and view fasting as a potential approach for treating low libido.
Scientists from DZNE found that preventing brain inflammation may help treat Alzheimer's disease. The study, published in Immunity, suggests that inhibiting the NLRP3 inflammasome can reduce neuroinflammation and help microglia clear harmful amyloid-beta deposits.
Researchers uncover the significance of neuroinflammation in Niemann-Pick type C disease, a rare form of childhood dementia. They identify translocator protein (TSPO) as a potential biomarker for disease monitoring and response to therapy.
A study using a smartphone-based wayfinding task identified individuals with increased risk for dementia, based on their movement patterns and spatial memory. The research provides promising insights into the potential of digital technologies for early detection and monitoring of Alzheimer's disease.
Researchers found anomalies in embryonic development of individuals with spinal muscular atrophy (SMA), which could lead to new treatment options. These abnormalities were recreated in laboratory-grown tissue cultures called organoids, revealing key insights into the disease's progression.
Researchers discovered that dexamethasone works in patients with severe COVID-19 by influencing impaired inflammatory response through specific immune cells. A predictive tool using single-cell analysis can identify early responders to treatment, offering hope for targeted therapy development.
Researchers have developed a blood test that can detect rare forms of dementia, such as frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), as well as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The test uses biomarkers, including tau and TDP-43 proteins, to identify underlying pathology.
DZNE researchers aim to measure intricate brain structures with artificial intelligence, using 3D brain scans and data from the Human Connectome Project. The goal is to better understand disease processes and normal brain changes over time.
Researchers developed an app to detect mild cognitive impairment, a potential indicator of Alzheimer's disease. The study used data from 199 older adults and found that the app detected MCI with high accuracy, comparable to in-clinic assessments.
A study of over 2,500 adults found a correlation between PFAS levels and unfavorable lipid profiles, increasing cardiovascular disease risk. Researchers suggest stricter regulation of PFAS to protect health.
Researchers investigate whether Tau proteins play a previously unsuspected role in energy management of neurons, potentially leading to new treatment options. The study aims to clarify the role of Tau in energy management and explore novel approaches to develop it into a target for therapies.
Dr. Sabine Krabbe is investigating the function of the brain's emotion center in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, which often co-occur with depression and anxiety. Her research aims to find common mechanisms that could lead to better treatments for patients.
A Berlin researcher is investigating biophysical phenomena relevant to brain diseases through a €1.5M European Research Council grant. The goal is to understand the behavior of aberrant protein inclusions in neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers at DZNE and Charité developed a novel treatment for autoimmune encephalitis by reprogramming white blood cells to target misdirected antibodies. The new therapy, called CAAR-T cells, has shown accuracy in laboratory studies and is planned for clinical trials.
Dr. Qihui Zhou aims to investigate the role of immune cells in ALS and FTD with a focus on the C9orf72 gene mutation, potentially leading to better treatments.
Prof. Dr. Thomas Gasser has been awarded the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences for discovering genetic risk factors for Parkinson's disease. He hopes his findings will lead to treatments targeting molecular causes and prevent or delay the onset of the disease.
Researchers found that endogenous retroviruses, naturally present in the human genome, can influence the spread of tau aggregates between cells. This suggests that viral proteins could be potential targets for therapies to stop or slow neurodegeneration.
A mouse study using novel biosensing technology reveals that enriched environments increase neural connections and boost brain function. The findings could lead to new AI methods inspired by brain plasticity.
Researchers tested 25 active agents in a small animal model and found seven substances more effective than standard therapy. Caffeine proved to be the most effective in reducing brain damage, with anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
Scientists are investigating how brain immune cells called microglia change shape in response to hazards using gene transcripts as molecular mediators. The goal is to gain insights into the mechanisms involved and potentially develop new therapies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Researchers have developed a computer-assisted method to automate the assessment of speech severity in ataxia patients, achieving an 80% hit rate. The new methodology leverages artificial intelligence and could simplify procedures for determining ataxia severity, facilitating research and clinical practice.
Researchers at DZNE discovered that centrosome controls neuronal migration but not axon growth. The study used novel molecular tools to show that centrosomal activity influences radial migration of projection neurons.
Researchers tested three widely believed aging treatments in mice and found no impact on aging. A new analytical approach allowed them to measure aging processes more precisely, revealing that these treatments promote general health rather than targeting aging mechanisms.
A new study published in the journal Nature has identified medin as a key player in Alzheimer's therapies. Medin, a protein that accumulates in the blood vessels of the brain, promotes vascular pathology and cognitive decline. The researchers hope to develop a treatment targeting medin to prevent vascular damage and cognitive decline.
A new study aims to diagnose severe neurodegenerative diseases like ALS and FTD with the help of speech tests. AI can analyze subtle nuances of speech patterns, including pauses, speed, and melodic aspects, to detect early changes.
Researchers analyzing over 3,000 blood samples from Alzheimer's patients and healthy individuals to identify reliable biomarkers. They investigate how well blood tests can diagnose Alzheimer's disease and predict its progression.
The NEUROCOV project seeks to understand the interplay between SARS-CoV-2 infection and the nervous system, with a focus on immune response and neuronal functions. The research aims to predict risk for neurological symptoms and develop effective treatments.
Research reveals that physical activity has a noticeable effect on almost all brain regions, with higher intensity and duration increasing brain volume and cortical thickness. The hippocampus, a key memory center, benefits most from physical activity, which can help counteract age-related loss of brain matter.
New study reveals how GABA A receptor antibodies inhibit neurotransmitter binding, leading to hyperexcitability and symptoms like twitching and seizures. The findings pave the way for developing effective therapies and further investigations into other diseases.
Researchers analyzed 139 patient blood samples to identify common mechanisms underlying COVID-19 recovery. They found that a gradual reduction in neutrophil counts and changes in molecular regulation of the immune system characterize the recovery process.
Researchers discovered a strong link between subjective cognitive impairments and elevated beta-amyloid protein levels, indicating early-stage Alzheimer's disease. The study suggests that combining these two factors can help identify individuals at risk for developing dementia.
Researchers found that high levels of both amyloid and tau proteins impair memory functions, but only when amyloid burden is also high. The study suggests that anti-amyloid therapies may be beneficial in reducing memory impairment in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease.
A study found that microglia's TREM2 receptor is activated up to two decades before Alzheimer's symptoms appear in individuals with a genetic predisposition. This activation may slow cognitive decline and pathological brain changes. The research suggests modulating microglial activity could be a promising therapeutic strategy.