Novel chemical could detect changes in amyloid in Alzheimer's disease

In the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease, amyloid forms into small clusters. Researchers believe there are a number of forms of the protein with different shapes or arrangements. The new technique uses a new class of biomarkers called luminescent conjugated oligothiophenes (LCOs) or luminescent conjugated polymers (LCPs). They are designed to differentiate between different forms of amyloid, emitting a differently coloured signal depending on the arrangement of the protein. Scientists have tested the technique on brain tissue and found that a different type of amyloid is present in people who have the APOE4 Alzheimer's gene.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'The development of this new approach will enable us to increase our understanding of amyloid, a key hallmark of Alzheimer's. This is essential if we are to progress in our ongoing search for drugs to prevent and treat this devastating condition.'

'It is interesting that the technique has detected apparent differences between the protein in people with the gene APOE4, which is linked to Alzheimer's and the normal gene APOE3. However much more research is needed to understand what these differences are and why they occur. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia yet dementia research is drastically underfunded. We must invest now.'

Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Study reference: 'New conformation-sensing imaging compounds distinguish protein deposits in APOE3 Alzheimer's patients from that in APOE4 Alzheimer's patients' by Hannah Brautigam et al

Notes to editors:

• For spokespeople and case studies contact the Alzheimer's Society press office on 0207 423 3595.
• ICAD is the world's leading forum on dementia research. Run by Alzheimer's Association, it will this year be taking place in Hawaii from Sunday 11 July to Thursday 15 July.
• 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