Scientists identify a hidden switch fuelling Alzheimer's brain inflammation
According to Science Daily, scientists at Scripps Research have identified a molecular 'switch' that sustains the damaging brain inflammation seen in Alzheimer's disease. The finding deepens understanding of immune responses underlying the disease.
The researchers showed that an immune-signalling protein called STING undergoes a chemical change that keeps the brain's immune system perpetually active. This hyperactivity has been associated with deterioration of the connections between nerve cells. Science Daily reports the findings as published in a leading neuroscience journal.
Lead author Dr John R. Teijaro said the team studied brain tissue from a mouse model of Alzheimer's. In the model, STING was observed to undergo a chemical change called 'palmitoylation', allowing the protein to remain active. The result was a sustained inflammatory response.
Under normal conditions, STING halts its activity once it has responded to pathogenic triggers such as viral DNA. In Alzheimer's samples, by contrast, the palmitoylated form of STING was reported to remain perpetually active, persistently overstimulating microglia (immune cells) in the brain. This may contribute to losses in synaptic connections.
The researchers tested small molecules that block palmitoylation. In mouse results, these blockers were shown to return STING to its normal functioning and to reduce brain inflammation, supporting cognitive performance. Science Daily emphasises that the findings could form the basis of a potential new targeted treatment field.
Dr Teijaro stressed that, while the findings point to an important direction for Alzheimer's treatment research, many steps need to be taken before reaching human clinical trials. 'This is still a cellular and animal-level proof of concept. Additional studies are needed to translate it to clinical reality,' he said.
Dr Susan Kohlhaas, a representative of Alzheimer's Society, said the study was 'promising but at an early stage'. Kohlhaas noted that existing Alzheimer's treatments target amyloid plaques, and that inflammation-targeted approaches provide a different mechanism. Commentary suggested that these two approaches may be combined in future treatment protocols.
Pharmaceutical sector representatives say that designing palmitoylation-targeted molecules can be time-consuming. Some companies, including Bristol Myers Squibb and Roche, invest in STING pathway research; an Alzheimer's-focused candidate pipeline has not yet been established.
Experts say that the study could also serve as a model for other neurodegenerative diseases (Parkinson's, ALS). Science Daily reports that the researchers plan to examine whether similar protein changes can be observed in these diseases.
Experts emphasise that this article should not be read as medical advice, and that clinician follow-up is essential for an Alzheimer's or other neurodegenerative diagnosis. The piece is limited to summarising the findings and expert views reported by Science Daily; individual health decisions should be discussed with a qualified clinician.