New Alzheimer's Treatment Target Discovered in Brain's Cellular Cleaners

Researchers identify astrocytes' autophagy process as a promising therapeutic avenue for Alzheimer's disease.

Scientists have discovered that astrocytes, non-neuronal brain cells, can clear toxic amyloid-beta proteins through autophagy.
Activating autophagy-associated genes in astrocytes of Alzheimer's mouse models improved memory and cognitive functions.
This research shifts focus from neurons to astrocytes, offering a novel target for Alzheimer's drug development.
The study was conducted by a team from the Korea Institute of Science and Technology, Institute for Basic Science, and Boston University.
Further research and preclinical trials are planned to explore drug developments that enhance astrocytic autophagy.