Scientists Discover Cause of Alzheimer’s Disease Linked To Mutation That Changes Common Enzyme

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Researchers at the Tokyo Metropolitan University in Tokyo, Japan, have found a new mechanism that produces tau protein clusters inside the human brain, which kills brain cells and causes the condition known as Alzheimer’s disease. This process occurs when an enzyme called MARK4 experiences a specific mutation, which then changes properties within tau, a vital part of our cells’ skeletal structure. The mutation increases the likelihood that a cell becomes more aggregate and insoluble. By obtaining a better understanding of these mechanisms, researchers believe the data could lay the foundations for future breakthrough treatments. The study was recently published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.

Alzheimer’s disease is a life-altering and devastating neurological condition that afflicts millions around the world. According to the World Health Organization, the disease is the most common form of dementia. It’s also calculated that the number of people with this condition will double every 20 years without a new treatment or cure. Researchers believe Alzheimer’s is caused by gathering protein clumps called “tau” inside of brain cells. These tau clusters cause neurons to die, which leads to problems with memory and motor functions. It’s still unknown why or how tau accumulates in the brain cells of people with the disease.

However, by understanding the mechanism that causes the clumping effect, scientists may finally find new clues that can lead to more effective treatments and maybe even ideas on how to prevent Alzheimer’s altogether.

MARK4 is also linked to other diseases in which the same process involving the aggregation and build-up of proteins occurs.

For this reason, the researchers’ newest insights into the tau protein’s behavior could someday lay the groundwork for beneficial treatments and perhaps even preventative measures for deadly neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. You can also learn more about this fascinating new development in the video below.