A little-known protein may be fueling Alzheimer’s — and scientists found a way to block it
An experimental Alzheimer’s compound prevented damaging protein clumps from forming in the brains of mice, helping nerve cells survive longer and reducing amyloid buildup. The treatment also appeared to improve heart health and slow some signs of aging, raising hopes for an entirely new way to combat dementia.
A groundbreaking discovery by researchers at ETH Zurich could potentially slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease, thanks to a novel compound they developed. Led by Professor Ursula Quitterer, the team investigated a protein called GRK2 and found that it plays a crucial role in the brain tissue of dementia patients. In their experiments with mice, they discovered that an inactive form of GRK2 clumps together and interferes with normal cell function, leading to cell death and reduced lifespan.
This compound, named Compound 10, effectively prevents GRK2 molecules from forming harmful aggregates, allowing mitochondria to function better and reducing the production of amyloid beta, a protein fragment strongly linked to Alzheimer's. The compound also improved heart function and aging processes in mice. Although the findings are still preclinical, the researchers believe that Compound 10 could complement existing Alzheimer's treatments by targeting a different biological pathway.
They are now seeking a pharmaceutical partner to help develop the compound into a viable treatment for Alzheimer's patients, who currently lack effective medications that can cure or significantly slow the disease's progression.
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