Pioneering Alzheimer's treatment targets protein buildups
Scientists have borrowed a cancer-fighting technique to tackle Alzheimer's, using engineered immune cells to target the disease more precisely. This early-stage study from the Buck Institute hints at safer, more effective ways to treat a condition that currently has no cure.
Targeted approach could reduce side effects
Researchers tweaked immune cells with special receptors—think of them as tiny GPS trackers—to hunt down harmful brain proteins like tau tangles and amyloid plaques. These smart cells are designed to deliver medication right where it's needed, which could mean fewer side effects compared to current treatments.
'Targeted scalpel' for the brain
Current Alzheimer's drugs can cause tough side effects like seizures or brain bleeds. Senior author Julie Andersen called the new method a "targeted scalpel" for its precision. The team is moving toward preclinical trials and has made their designs public, hoping others will help push this research forward.