Recent Alzheimer's Disease Research

*** Recent research reflects some steps which have been taken towards the development of a vaccine for Alzheimer;s Disease. We are a distance from that goal and this work is based on theories about Alzheimer's Disease.

One theory hypothesizes that rising levels of beta-amyloid protein deposited in the brain are at the root of the disease. Therefore, attempts are being made to see if it's possible to rid the brain of this protein and to see if people never get Alzheimer's or get better.
Initially, there have been mixed results. About 20 percent of participants who received at least one injection developed significant quantities of antibodies against beta amyloid in their blood.
Those who developed antibodies also experienced more stable memory and also scored better on some tests which evaluate memory(compared to the placebo group). Those who produced higher levels of the antibodies also achieved better results on memory results than those who developed lower levels.
Participants who developed antibodies also experienced a decline in levels of tau protein which has long been associated with brain cell death in Alzheimer's Disease.

However, participants who had a good antibody response and good memory stability experienced brain shrinkage above and beyond that of unresponsive individuals.

Forward steps often generate more questions. The research process is very slow and can be frustrating for family members and other caregivers. Ideas and themes have to be tested. All this must be done prior to having a vaccine or a cure

.For more information go to:

www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=47082