Scientists Find New Alzheimer’s Clue in Spinal Fluid—What it Could Mean
Summary
A new study found that people with Alzheimer's disease have higher levels of a protein called meprin-β in their brain and spinal fluid. This protein increases as the disease gets worse and may be connected to the buildup of beta-amyloid, which is linked to Alzheimer's.Key Facts
- Meprin-β is a protein found in higher amounts in brains and spinal fluid of people with Alzheimer's.
- The active form of meprin-β rises mostly during later stages of the disease.
- Alzheimer's disease involves beta-amyloid plaques forming in the brain.
- Meprin-β may act like an enzyme that helps create beta-amyloid plaques.
- Researchers studied brain tissue at different disease stages using a system called Braak staging.
- Higher meprin-β levels were also found in spinal fluid from people with Alzheimer’s and in lab rats bred to have amyloid buildup.
- Human nerve cells exposed to beta-amyloid showed increased meprin-β levels.
- The study suggests meprin-β could be a new sign to track Alzheimer’s progression or help test treatments.
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