New study explores mysterious cancer-Alzheimer’s disease link: ‘Short quote’
New research may help clarify the long-observed relationship between the two. cancer history and reduced the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
The study, published in the journal Cell, used a mouse model to investigate how biological changes associated with cancer influence the progression of the most common type of dementia.
The findings suggest that certain cancers It releases a protein called cystatin C. The protein travels through the bloodstream and enters the brain, an area that is difficult for many Alzheimer’s treatments to reach.
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Cystatin-C binds to harmful amyloid protein clumps associated with Alzheimer’s disease and activates a protein called TREM2, which acts like an on switch for the brain’s immune cells.
Once activated, these cells begin to remove existing amyloid plaques. This process is associated with reduced plaque buildup and Improved cognitive functionThe research revealed that.
Dr. Bob Arnott, a Vermont-based internist, told Fox News Digital that the findings help clarify a pattern that doctors have observed for years.
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“Scientists have long observed a puzzling statistical pattern known as ‘inverse comorbidity’: people with a history of cancer are less likely to get cancer.” develop Alzheimer’s diseaseAnd people with Alzheimer’s disease are less likely to develop cancer,” said Arnott, who was not involved in the study.
The findings suggest that certain cancer-related biological signals may slow or reverse key features of Alzheimer’s disease.
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Arnott said the study was noteworthy because it identified a specific biological pathway that could be targeted in the future. Alzheimer’s disease treatment.
“The target of this approach is pre-existing amyloid plaques, It’s not just about early prevention. “That distinction could be important for patients who already have the disease,” he said.
Arnott cautioned that this finding does not mean that cancer itself is preventive.
“This study does not suggest that cancer is a preventive, desirable, or viable treatment,” he said. “Instead, we found that biological programs activated during cancer can inadvertently engage in protective functions. immune system In your brain. ”
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The study suggests that future treatments may focus not only on slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s disease, but also on clearing harmful buildup in the brain, Arnott added.
Results are based on experiments in animal models; Further research This is needed to determine whether the same effects occur in humans, the researchers noted.
