Blocking immune cells protects mouse brains from tau disease damage

Researchers have identified a method to protect brain tissue from Alzheimer's disease damage by inhibiting immune cells that destroy neurons, ScienceDaily Mind & Brain and Science Daily both reported. In mouse experiments, the therapy preserved approximately 40% more tissue within brain memory centers. The treatment also improved memory performance in the animals. [1][4]

The intervention succeeded without clearing toxic buildups of tau, a protein that forms abnormal tangles inside neurons. Conditions marked by these protein tangles are classified as tauopathies. ScienceDaily Mind & Brain noted that preventing the destruction of brain cells is a major challenge in treating Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders. [1]

The findings build on earlier research into neurodegenerative diseases. Chronic traumatic encephalopathy is a progressive neurodegenerative disease associated with repeated head trauma that causes mood, behavioral, and cognitive problems. As FTMQ Science reported earlier, temporary removal of overactive immune cells in mice with Alzheimer's-like conditions restored more than two hours of daily sleep without reducing amyloid plaques. [6][7]