Those of us who follow the latest research in Alzheimer’s disease are all too familiar with the troublesome amyloid plaques thought to be linked to Alzheimer’s. But could it possibly be that those plaques are actually helpful?
Neuroscientists Rudolph Tanzi and Robert Moir, of Massachusetts General, Harvard’s largest teaching hospital, are challenging long held beliefs in the field of Alzheimer's research. Whereas most research suggests amyloid-beta is problematic, these researchers are setting forth the idea that amyloid-beta is beneficial to our immunity, protecting the brain from foreign cells; much in the way an oyster develops a pearl. As Moir describes, “Maybe amyloid plaques are a brain pearl, a way for our body to trap and permanently sequester these invading pathogens.”
Amyloid-beta, traditionally seen as our enemy, now becomes our immune system's friend and ally. When there is an overproduction of plaque, it can impact healthy brain cells, leading to Alzheimer’s disease.
The results, years in the making, were well worth the wait. Not only were researchers able to demonstrate the virus and bacteria killing ability of amyloids in a test tube, but the same results were realized when tested in animal models. It is important to take note that mice producing amyloids were protected against diseases such as encephalitis and meningitis, while mice lacking amyloids died within a short period of time.
There are several theories yet to be explored to explain what’s causing overproduction of the amyloid plaques; the immune system could be attacking healthy cells in the brain, similar to other autoimmune disorders. Or, it may be the end result of an overreaction to a virus or bacteria that infiltrates the brain. Once the cause is determined, it could possibly allow physicians to stop the process in the early stages and restrict the resulting dementia.
Independence-4-Seniors Home Care is a leader in providing dementia care for those impacted, as we wait for a research breakthrough that leads to a cure. Whether the need is for short-term respite care to allow family caregivers a break, full-time care day and night, or anything in between, we’re available to make life more comfortable for those with dementia and those who care for them. Contact us at (630) 323-4665 to learn more.