Researchers at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore have identified a new “energy switch” in immune cells of the brain, called microglia, which could lead to better treatments for Alzheimer’s disease. Alzheimer’s, the most common form of dementia, currently has no cure and affects millions worldwide.
Microglia act as the brain’s cleanup crew, clearing away toxic proteins and cellular waste that can harm brain cells. In people with Alzheimer’s disease, microglia often become damaged or lose energy, making them less effective at this critical task.
As a result, harmful substances like beta-amyloid protein build up in the brain, contributing to the disease’s progression.
The researchers discovered that a protein called the translocator protein is essential for microglia to generate energy. This protein is located in the energy-producing parts of the cell, and without it, microglia lose their ability to function efficiently.
When the translocator protein is absent, another enzyme called hexokinase-2 becomes active. This enzyme helps metabolize sugar but relies on an inefficient energy production process, further reducing the microglia’s ability to remove toxic waste.
To address this problem, the scientists developed a tool that uses blue light to control the hexokinase-2 enzyme. By genetically modifying the enzyme and exposing it to blue light, they were able to “switch off” one of its functions.
This stopped the enzyme from attaching to the energy-generating parts of microglia, forcing the cells to switch to a more efficient method of energy production.
The result was a significant improvement in the microglia’s ability to clear beta-amyloid from the brain—nearly 20% more effective. This finding offers a potential path for developing drugs that could target the metabolism of microglia to treat Alzheimer’s disease.
The World Health Organization estimates that by 2030, 78 million people worldwide will have dementia, with Alzheimer’s disease being the leading cause. Understanding and improving microglia’s role in clearing brain waste could be a key breakthrough in slowing or even preventing the disease.
While the study represents a significant step forward, more research is needed to develop practical treatments based on these findings. The researchers are optimistic that targeting brain cell metabolism could open new doors for therapies aimed at Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases.
For those interested in brain health, studies suggest that antioxidants might help reduce the risk of dementia, and coconut oil has shown potential for improving cognitive function in Alzheimer’s patients.
This exciting discovery highlights the importance of ongoing research in tackling the growing challenge of Alzheimer’s disease.
The study, led by Lauren H. Fairley and her team, was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
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