Scientists Find How Tau Proteins Spread in Alzheimer's

A common brain protein may be ferrying toxic Tau proteins from damaged neurons into healthy ones. Blocking that transfer could slow or stop Alzheimer's progression, according to findings published Tuesday. The disease affects roughly 7 million Americans and is among the most feared age-related conditions. Identifying the vehicle that carries Tau across neurons gives researchers a concrete intervention point they did not previously have.

Until now, scientists understood that Tau proteins — which tangle and damage neurons — spread through the brain as Alzheimer's advances, but the mechanism was unclear. This research identifies a specific protein acting as a transport vessel for those toxic packages. If that vessel can be blocked before it delivers its cargo, the spread of neuronal damage may be slowed. The findings are a mechanistic advance. Researchers have not yet announced a drug candidate or clinical trial targeting this pathway.