How might cancer influence Alzheimer's risk?

A new study suggests that certain cancers release a protein, cystatin-C, which can enter the brain and help clear amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer's.

What role does cystatin-C play in Alzheimer's research?

Cystatin-C, a protein released by some cancers, binds to amyloid protein clumps and activates the brain's immune cells to clear these harmful plaques.

Are these findings a step towards new Alzheimer's treatments?

Yes, the research identifies a biological pathway involving cystatin-C and TREM2 that could be targeted for future Alzheimer's treatments aimed at clearing existing plaque buildup.

Home / Health / Cancer Link Slashes Alzheimer's Risk

Cancer Link Slashes Alzheimer's Risk

4 Feb

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Summary

Certain cancers release a protein that enters the brain.
This protein binds to amyloid clumps, activating brain immune cells.
Activated cells clear amyloid plaques, improving cognition.

A recent study has shed light on the long-observed inverse relationship between cancer and Alzheimer's disease. Published in the journal Cell, the research utilized mouse models to investigate how biological changes associated with cancer might influence the progression of Alzheimer's.

The findings indicate that specific cancers release a protein known as cystatin-C. This protein can travel through the bloodstream and reach the brain, a challenging area for many existing Alzheimer's treatments. Once in the brain, cystatin-C binds to harmful amyloid protein clumps, which are a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease.

Furthermore, cystatin-C activates a protein called TREM2, effectively acting as an 'on-switch' for the brain's immune cells. These activated immune cells then begin to clear existing amyloid plaques. This clearing process was associated with a reduction in plaque buildup and an improvement in cognitive function, according to the study's results.