29.01.13
£300,000 study to investigate Alzheimer’s infection link
Researchers are investigating a possible link between infections and the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Scientists at the University of Southampton are carrying out the three-year project, funded by Alzheimer’s Research UK.
The study has been awarded £300,000 and will look at donated brain tissue, to investigate the changes in the brains of those who had infections when they died.
Infections could be a risk factor for Alzheimer’s, and there is evidence that the immune system becomes activated in the brain during the disease.
Dr Delphine Boche, lecturer in Clinical Neurosciences at the University of Southampton, is leading the study. She said: “We are particularly interested in immune cells called microglia, as we think they may start producing chemicals that could be harmful to cells and make Alzheimer’s worse.
“The findings could have important implications both for our understanding of the disease and for the management of healthcare in the elderly. We are incredibly grateful to Alzheimer’s Research UK and their supporters for providing us with the funds to make the research possible.”
Dr Eric Karran, director of research at Alzheimer’s Research UK, said: “The study has the potential to help us understand more about how to delay the progression of this devastating disease, which affects over half a million people in the UK. Slowing the progression of Alzheimer’s could have a huge impact on families and allow people more valuable time with their loved ones. Only by understanding the factors that drive the disease, can we develop new and innovative ways to slow it down.”
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