Researchers Alter Blood Cells to Combat Alzheimer's Disease and Brain Aging Process
In a groundbreaking development, scientists at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center have made a significant stride in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. The research, led by Dr. Helen Chen, has shown promising results in the treatment of Alzheimer's using a novel approach: rejuvenating the aged brain with engineered cells.
The study, published in Advanced Science, focuses on the creation of young immune cells called iMPs (induced mononuclear phagocytes). These cells are manufactured from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which are adult cells that can be reprogrammed into any other cell type.
The treatment has shown to improve memory, reduce brain inflammation, and even rejuvenate neurons in Alzheimer's-stricken mice. Remarkably, this therapy did not reduce the classic Alzheimer's plaques, suggesting a new, radically different approach to Alzheimer's therapy.
The iMPs act less like traditional janitors and more like remote bodyguards, releasing factors into the blood that shield the brain from afar. Interestingly, these cells lodged in peripheral organs like the lungs and spleen, rather than migrating to the brain.
In lab dishes, serum amyloid proteins, known to kill human microglia, were found to be harmless when paired with iMP-conditioned media. This finding was crucial, as serum amyloid proteins are a key component in the formation of Alzheimer's plaques.
In the treated mice, some of the genetic signatures of aging seemed to be disappearing. The treated mice performed better on memory tests, especially those requiring the hippocampus, the brain's memory hub. Inside the hippocampus of treated mice, researchers saw rejuvenated mossy cells - neurons critical for encoding new experiences.
The treated mice also recognized objects and remembered spatial layouts almost as well as youthful mice. This is a significant finding, as spatial memory is often impaired in Alzheimer's patients.
The scientists tested iMPs in mice suffering from a model of Alzheimer's disease and observed a preventive effect, even in mice that already had severe symptoms. This suggests that the therapy could potentially be used to slow or even halt the progression of the disease.
Drugs targeting amyloid have dominated the field for decades, yet their benefits remain modest and controversial. The new approach offers a fresh perspective, with the potential to revolutionise the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Further research is needed to determine the safety and efficacy of this therapy in humans.
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