Many researchers have been dedicating themselves to combating Alzheimer’s, and in a study published last Monday (7) in the journal The CRISPR Journal, a Canadian team describes a new discovery: a genetic mutation capable of protecting against the disease. Scientists have successfully edited the genome of cultured human cells in vitro to enter this mutation.
According to the study, conducted by a team from Université Laval and Québec-Université Laval Research Center, the mutation does not bring any disadvantage to the body of those who carry it, in addition to reducing the risk of Alzheimer’s.
One of the best-known actions of the disease is the accumulation of amyloid plaques, which consist of protein deposits between brain cells, a process that results in neuronal death. These plaques are formed with the help of an enzyme called beta-secretase, and the mutation that stars in the study makes it difficult for this enzyme to work, reducing the formation of plaques.
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The article mentions that introducing the mutation into the genome of people at risk of developing Alzheimer’s can prevent or slow the progression of the disease, but it is not effective in repairing the damage already done to neurons.
With this, the researchers indicate that a possible treatment based on this technique would be indicated for people with a family history of Alzheimer’s. The group is currently focused on refining research and finding a way to edit the genomes of millions of brain cells.
