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New mathematical model for amyloid formation

Scientists develop a mathematical model that describes the chemical reactions responsible for amyloid fibril formation, revealing catalytic sites at interfaces and implications for laboratory data interpretation. The model has a simpler mathematical form than previous models, making it more accessible for future studies.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalThe Journal of Chemical Physics·DateJan 28, 2020

Pathogenic Alzheimer's disease cascade is activated by faulty norepinephrine signaling

Scientists discovered a key mechanism underlying Alzheimer's pathology, revealing how amyloid-beta oligomers hijack norepinephrine signaling to activate GSK3-beta and hyper-phosphorylate tau protein. This rewiring of the alpha-2A adrenergic receptor may explain the failure of previous clinical trials targeting amyloid protein buildup.

SourceUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham·JournalScience Translational Medicine·DateJan 15, 2020

Brazilian scientists unveil chemotherapy resistance mechanism related to p53 mutation

A Brazilian research team identified the presence of mutant p53 protein clusters in chemotherapy-resistant glioblastoma cells, which can lead to drug resistance. The study found that these clusters are organized in a way that makes them resistant to temozolomide, a common treatment for the disease.

Untangling APOE ε 4's association to tau tangles

A new study by McGill University researchers found that APOEε4 carriers have greater levels of tau tangles in memory centers, even after controlling for amyloid plaques. The study provides evidence that the gene's risk of dementia is related to both hallmark pathologies of Alzheimer's disease.

SourceMcGill University·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateDec 20, 2019

A new offensive against Alzheimer's disease

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are using advanced MRI technology to study the connection between small vessel disease and Alzheimer's disease, aiming to identify new prevention and treatment targets. The team will visualize cerebrospinal fluid flow in real-time, shedding light on pathways linking SVD and CSF clearance.

Deciphering the early stages of Parkinson's disease is a matter of time

Scientists observed how alpha-synuclein protein variants change over time, identifying initial stages of protein aggregates linked to early onset familial cases. They also found evidence of which protein species are important for amyloid filament growth and distinct structures depending on the mutation.

Probes shed new light on Alzheimer's cause

Researchers have developed a way to track the formation of soluble amyloid beta peptide aggregates implicated in the onset of Alzheimer's disease. The ruthenium-based fluorescent complexes bind to these aggregates, allowing researchers to monitor their progress and movements over time.

Study connects low social engagement to amyloid levels and cognitive decline

A new study found that low social engagement in elderly men and women is associated with greater cognitive decline over three years, particularly among those with high levels of brain amyloid-β. Researchers say social engagement may be an important marker of resilience or vulnerability in older adults at risk of cognitive impairment.

SourceBrigham and Women's Hospital·JournalAmerican Journal of Geriatric Psychiatry·DateJun 28, 2019

Attitudes toward physician-assisted death among adults with elevated level of biomarker associated with Alzheimer's disease

Cognitively normal adults with elevated levels of amyloid-β exhibited mixed attitudes toward physician-assisted death, reflecting complex emotions and values surrounding end-of-life care. The study highlights the need for nuanced discussions about dying wishes and advance care planning in this vulnerable population.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Neurology·DateApr 29, 2019

Anticancer drug candidate inhibits lethal aggregation of mutant tumor suppressor protein

Researchers discovered that PRIMA-1 reverses mutant p53 aggregate accumulation, leading to the restoration of native protein function. The compound's potential as an anticancer drug is highlighted by its phase II clinical trials and positive results in breast and ovarian cancer cell lines.