Protein linked to rheumatoid arthritis could reduce risk of Alzheimer’s disease, study claims

The study was published online by the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease.

Researchers from the University of Florida injected mice that had been genetically modified for Alzheimer's disease with the protein GM-CSF. After a 20 day trial they found the mice performed substantially better on tests measuring their working memory and learning. An artificially produced version of GM-CSF - Leukine - is already FDA approved and used to treat certain cancer patients.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This exciting research provides a possible answer to the long unexplained question of why rheumatoid arthritis could reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease. Given that the identified protein is already available as a drug that is proven to be safe in humans, the time taken to develop an Alzheimer's disease treatment could be substantially reduced.'

'However, we must not jump the gun. Much more research is needed before we can say for certain that the findings demonstrated in mice would also occur in humans. One in three people over 65 will die with dementia yet dementia research receives eight times less investment than cancer research. We must invest now if we are to move forward with the advancement of potentially life-changing treatments.'

Dr Susanne Sorensen
Head of Research
Alzheimer's Society

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Research reference: 'GM-CSF up-regulated in Rheumatoid Arthritis reverses cognitive impairment and amyloidosis in Alzheimer's mice,' by Tim D Boyd et al. Journal of Alzheimer's Disease

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