Cholesterol may bind with key Alzheimer's protein
Published 31 May 2012
A section of protein which helps make up amyloid plaques – a hallmark of Alzheimer’s – could bind with cholesterol according to research published in the journal Science.
Scientists claim this could help explain why, as previously known, cholesterol could increase people's risk of developing the disease.
Researchers from Vanderbilt University found that in cell models, the C99 protein, which is created when the APP protein is cut by the enzyme beta-secretase, bound with cholesterol.
Alzheimer's Society comment:
'We have known for some time that cholesterol has a link to increased risk of Alzheimer's disease. This exciting research provides us with a potential reason for why this might be. While this is very early stage research, it does point towards a new avenue of investigation which one day could lead us to new treatments.'
'One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. Earlier this year the Prime Minister David Cameron committed to doubling funding for dementia research. We must now ensure that this cash injection enables us to create a better life for people with dementia today and ultimately a cure.'
Professor Clive Ballard
Director of Research
Alzheimer's Society
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Research reference: 'The Amyloid Precursor Protein Has a Flexible Transmembrane Domain and Binds Cholesterol' by Barrett et al in Science
Notes to editors:
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 800,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than ten 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
