Hope in Alzheimer’s treatment, new method discovered to activate brain’s natural defense system

Islamabad (Health Desk) Scientists have made an important breakthrough by discovering a method through which the brain can activate its own supporting cells and gain the ability to remove harmful amyloid plaques formed in Alzheimer’s disease. According to research by Baylor College of Medicine, a natural system present in the brain can, under certain conditions, help eliminate toxic substances and support memory preservation, which is otherwise impaired in Alzheimer’s patients. The focus of the study is on specific supporting brain cells called “astrocytes,” which are star-shaped and play an important role in maintaining neural connections. Scientists found that by activating these cells, the accumulated toxic material during the disease can be effectively reduced. The study, published in the journal “Nature Neuroscience,” states that increasing the level of a protein called Sox9 significantly improves the cleaning ability of these cells. Experts believe these findings point towards a new treatment direction in which strengthening the brain’s natural defense system may help slow down mental decline and memory loss.