Scientists create new model of Alzheimer’s using skin cells from people with the condition

Published 16 July 2012

Scientists at Alzheimer’s Association International Conference 2012 told how they turned skin cells from 12 people with Alzheimer’s and their unaffected family members into brain cells

The research focuses on people with the rare, inherited young-onset form of Alzheimer's (which accounts for less than two per cent of cases). Because most people with Alzheimer's have the late-stage onset 'sporadic' form of Alzheimer's, researchers plan to expand their research to create brain cells using cells taken from people with different forms of Alzheimer's.

Alzheimer's Society comment:

'This approach is valuable as it will allow researchers to better understand how Alzheimer's disease develops, and to test new potential treatments. Although stem cell research isn't anything new, it is becoming an increasingly accessible approach which could have real benefits for dementia research going forward.

'One in three people over 65 will develop dementia. More research is needed to help us understand what happens in the brain as the condition progresses so we can develop more treatments and ultimately a cure.'

Dr Anne Corbett
Research Manager
Alzheimer's Society

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Research Reference: Andrew Sproul et al. 'Development of an Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Alzheimer's Disease Model Using PSEN1 Mutant Fibroblasts', Alzheimer's Association International Conference

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 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