Here is the current theory as to how this happens, the amyloid cascade theory: A-beta, when accumulating to form plaques, triggers several detrimental signals which bring on a modification of the tau protein, inflammation, and eventually, neuronal death. This is when the first symptoms of the disease start appearing. It starts with memory loss, disorientation, losing the sense of time… That is when most patients become concerned, which is an issue given the lack of curative treatments.

To remedy the issue, many ideas have led to potentials solutions being currently developped.

Anti-amyloid “vaccines”

It might be a bit bold to speak of a vaccine, but the term was jointly adopted by an equally enthusiastic public and scientific community: it consists of an injection of antibodies to the patient. The antibodies recognize A-beta and allow its elimination. The mechanism is very similar to what we know of vaccines. The process is actually more complex, it can be active (1, 2) (with our cells acting on their own to get rid of the amyloid) or passive (3) (the drug itself prevents the formation of amyloid plaque.) This promising and innovative therapeutic lead is being developped.