Protein linked to improved memory, study claims
Published 26 January 2011
A protein which plays an important role in the development of the brain could help boost memory according to a study published in Nature.
Scientists from the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York increased the amount of the protein IGF-II in rats and found they showed significantly improved long term memory compared to controls. The effects of the IGF-II were also found to last for several weeks.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'The brain is a very complex organ and it is vital that we continue to increase our understanding of how it functions. This promising study builds on existing evidence that suggests IGF-II has an important role to play in keeping brain cells healthy. It also poses some important questions about how we maintain memory. However, it is early stage work and more research is now needed to see whether this approach could be the basis of a future treatment for dementia.'
'One in three people over 65 will die with dementia yet dementia research continues to be drastically underfunded. Only by giving dementia research the priority it deserves can we move towards identifying the causes and finding a cure.'
Dr Anne Corbett
Research Communications Manager
Alzheimer's Society
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Research Reference: Prof Alberini et al 'A critical role for IGF-II in memory consolidation and enhancement' in Nature
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
