Alzheimer’s Society comment on new research into the effects of amyloid on blood clots in Alzheimer’s

The study worked with mouse models of the disease to determine how the presence of the amyloid protein affected accumulation of fibrinogen, a key component of blood clots.

People with Alzheimer's disease are more susceptible to stroke and bleeding in the brain. Previous research has shown that amyloid is found in the lining of blood vessels in the brain, causing the vessels to become more fragile. This new study provides new information about how amyloid affects the blood vessels, and increases the risk of stroke in people with Alzheimer's disease.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'Many people with Alzheimer's disease actually have a condition called mixed dementia, a combination of Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, which is linked to interruptions in the blood flow to the brain. We already know that the amyloid protein is found in blood vessels in the brain in Alzheimer's, and that it increases the risk of stroke and bleeding in the brain.'

'This study provides a better understanding of how this amyloid might also be linked to the formation of blood clots, which increase the chance of damage to nerve cells. However, there is much we still do not understand. Research into dementia is drastically underfunded. We must invest more if we are to move forward in our understanding and treatment of this devastating condition.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

ENDS

Notes to editors:

• One in three people over 65 will die with dementia.
• Alzheimer's Society research shows that 750,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In just 15 years a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051.
• Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
• Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland.
• Alzheimer's Society supports people to live well with dementia today and funds research to find a cure for tomorrow. We rely on voluntary donations to continue our vital work. You can donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
  
• Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk