Halting Alzheimer's

"Using special tools like X-ray scattering and fluorescent dyes, the team confirmed these tiny clusters really existed. Then, they tried changing the solution to see if they could stop the clusters from forming.

By adjusting the salt levels and adding a substance called heparin, they were able to prevent the clusters. When the clusters didn’t form, the tau fibrils didn’t form either.

The researchers believe that the salt reduces the strength of the interaction between tau proteins and heparin. This makes it harder for the proteins to come together and form those early clusters. Since the fibrils grow from these clusters, stopping them early could be the key to preventing Alzheimer’s damage.

This discovery could open a new path for treating Alzheimer’s. Instead of trying to break down the large fibrils after they’ve formed, new treatments could focus on blocking the first step—these soft, tiny clusters. It might be a gentler and more effective way to stop the disease before it causes too much damage"

Read "Scientists successfully shut down Alzheimer’s disease" on SmartNews: https://l.smartnews.com/p-6B9n7x8k/B8SlXB