American scientists have found what they called the “Big Bang” in the development of Alzheimer’s disease. They managed to establish the first step in the neurodegenerative process, from which the ailment begins. This is a breakthrough, which must necessarily lead to the creation of new ways to fight the disease.
Scientists focused on the tau-protein, which tends to accumulate in one place, to form the so-called neurofibrillar confusion. As they grow, they can kill neurons, launching a neurodegenerative process. But what causes tau-proteins to connect with each other? Previously, scientists were looking for some external factor, an incentive to launch a reaction, now they have discovered a form of protein that is inherently unbalanced and tends to contact other proteins. Apparently, it is the root of evil.
Now, when the enemy is designated, the work will go in two directions. First, the creation of a new method of early diagnosis, when the blood and cerebrospinal fluid of patients will be tested for the presence of this dangerous form of tau protein. Secondly, it is necessary to develop drugs that will block the activity of the protein, translate it into an already known neutral form, which is not inclined to unite with other proteins and create congestion.
According to scientists, now a real hunt for tau-protein will unfold, when specialists in a race and with passion will seek weapons against him. At stake is an incredible prize – the opportunity not even to heal, but to stop the development of Alzheimer’s disease in the bud, before the onset of symptoms. And to save millions of people from suffering in the future.
