Researchers Say They May Have Discovered 'A Way Into Tackling Alzheimer's'

A new study conducted by researchers from the University of Southampton in England found that reducing brain inflammation could be the key to treat and prevent Alzheimer’s disease. Lead author of the study, Dr. Diego Gomez-Nicola, confirmed they have found a way “into tackling the disease” and have to move the learnings to a clinical setup as soon as possible. Contrary to the belief that Alzheimer’s caused brain inflammation, the study found that it is an overactive immune system, which inflames the brain, potentially leading to the disease.

For the study, researchers looked at both, healthy and Alzheimer’s brain tissue, and found that those who were suffering from the disease had a higher number of immune cells (microglia), therefore presenting brain inflammation. The scientists then tested a chemical known as GW2580 to reduce microglia on mice and found that those treated with the chemical showed fewer memory and behavioral problems. “These findings are as close to evidence as we can get to show that this particular pathway is active in the development of Alzheimer's disease,” said Dr. Gomez Nicola. “The next step is to work closely with our partners in industry to find a safe and suitable drug that can be tested to see if it works in humans.”

“With an aging population and no new dementia drugs in over a decade, the need to find treatments that can slow or stop disease progression is greater than ever,” asserted Dr. Doug Brown, director of research at Alzheimer's Society. Alzheimer’s affects almost 5.5 million Americans.