Southampton scientists’ Alzheimer's breakthrough

Medical trials have shown for the first time that two types of protein which build up in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, are closely linked.

Alzheimer’s is a form of dementia affecting more than 15,500 people in Hampshire alone – and millions across the world.

Now researchers have found that vaccines aimed at reducing one of the Alzheimer-linked proteins in the brain also reduces the other.

The study – funded by the Alzheimer’s Research Trust – also highlights which parts of the nerve cell to be targeted by future dementia treatments.

Southampton scientists presented their crucial findings at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference on Alzheimer's Disease in Honolulu yesterday – the world’s largest conference of its kind.

Researchers from around the world gathered to report and discuss groundbreaking information on the cause, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders.

Dr Delphine Boche from the University of Southampton said: “This study demonstrates a link between these two Alzheimer’srelated proteins, which has been suspected but not clearly demonstrated in the human brain. The findings give us more information about the interaction between the proteins in Alzheimer’s and may clarify how the disease progresses in the brain.”

Teresa O’Dwyer, from Hampshire, whose husband Peter was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s three years ago, knows the value of research into the disease.

“Nowadays, I feel more like Peter’s mum than his wife as he needs help with most day-to-day things,” she said. “He has no concept of the value of money anymore and can no longer write or use a knife and fork. Bit by bit his abilities are being taken away and it’s very sad knowing there’s little that can be done about it.

“Research like this gives hope for future generations. It’s the only way forward if we’re going to beat this dreadful disease.”

Rebecca Wood, chief executive of the Alzheimer’s Research Trust also welcomes the Southampton findings. She said: “These are important findings in our fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

“It’s crucial that we identify as many treatment targets as possible for this incredibly complex disease to increase the chances of swift progress. Over 15,500 people in Hampshire are living with the daily reality of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Research is the only answer to dementia, yet UK scientists remain the poor relations in comparison to other serious diseases.

“With the right level of support, our scientists can help avert the massive increase in numbers living with dementia forecast for the next generation.”

Find out more

■ The Alzheimer’s Research Trust provides free information on Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias.

Call 01223 843899 or visit alzheimersresearch.

org.uk.

The charity relies solely on public donations to fund its research.

■ The Alzheimer’s Research Trust is currently funding 120 promising projects at leading universities across the UK, including nearly £500,000 of dementia research studies in Southampton over the past ten years.