Scientists Find How Do Neurons Die In Alzheimer's

It is a well-known fact that Alzheimer's disease is a neurological condition that is characterized by the loss of neurons and, thereby, the loss of communication between them. Until now, not much was known about the exact way in which these neurons die. However, pioneering new research has shed some light on the exact way that brain cells die in Alzheimer's. The research, led by Professor Bart De Strooper at VIB-KU Leuven and UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) at UCL, along with Dr Sriram Balusu at VIB-KU Leuven, sheds light on a long-standing mystery in neuroscience. Mechanism Behind Neuron DeathFor years, scientists have debated how neurons perish in this condition. This latest research identifies necroptosis, a programmed form of cell death, as a key mechanism activated in response to amyloid plaques and tau tangles—two hallmark proteins linked to the disease. Importantly, the researchers not only identified this process but also demonstrated that preventing it could rescue neurons, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies.A crucial player in this process is an RNA gene called MEG3. The study found that MEG3 levels were significantly elevated in human neurons affected by Alzheimer’s, and its presence alone was sufficient to trigger necroptosis. These findings mark a significant advancement in understanding the cellular mechanisms driving neurodegeneration in AD.There Is Critical Gap In ResearchOne of the major challenges in Alzheimer's research has been linking the disease's defining characteristics—amyloid plaques, tau tangles, and neuron loss—in a way that accurately represents disease progression. Traditional mouse models have failed to replicate these features, leaving critical gaps in knowledge.To overcome this limitation, the research team developed a novel model by implanting both human and mouse neurons into the brains of AD mouse models. Strikingly, only the human neurons displayed the classic features of Alzheimer’s, including tau tangles and significant cell loss. This suggests that human-specific factors play a crucial role in the disease, which standard animal models cannot replicate."Our findings underscore the resilience of mouse neurons against amyloid pathology, opening doors to understanding protective mechanisms that might inspire future treatments," explained Sriram Balusu, the study's first author.Targeting Necroptosis For Future TreatmentsWith their new model, researchers probed deeper into how neurons die in Alzheimer’s. They confirmed that necroptosis plays a central role in neuronal loss. More significantly, they found that by reducing MEG3 levels and blocking necroptosis, they could prevent neuron death. While further research is needed to clarify how MEG3 triggers this process, the discovery represents a major step forward.Professor De Strooper emphasized the potential impact of these findings:"Necroptosis is already being explored in drug development for cancer and ALS. Our research opens up new possibilities for targeting Alzheimer’s through this pathway, alongside conventional approaches focusing on amyloid and tau."As Alzheimer’s continues to affect millions worldwide, this discovery offers a promising direction for future treatments. By targeting necroptosis and the role of MEG3, researchers may be able to slow or even halt neurodegeneration, bringing new hope to patients and their families.

Scientists Find How Do Neurons Die In Alzheimer's

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Scientists Find How Do Neurons Die In Alzheimer's