[ET] Researchers say that they may have discovered the molecular-level cause of Alzheimer’s disease.Scientists at the University of California—Riverside said in recent findings that the key to understanding Alzheimer’s may have to do with "tau" proteins that likely cause neurofibrillary tangles—which are found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Previously, researchers suggested that amyloid plaques, which are a buildup of amyloid peptides, may be the cause.
Researchers focused on the different structures a single molecule can manufacture, known as isomers.
"An isomer is the same molecule with a different three-dimensional orientation than the original. A common example would be hands. Hands are isomers of each other, mirror images but not exact copies. Isomers can actually have a handedness," Julian said.
Both amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles are critical indicators that doctors look for when trying to diagnose Alzheimer’s.
"Roughly 20 percent of people have the plaques, but no signs of dementia," said UCR chemistry professor Ryan Julian in a statement. "This makes it seem as though the plaques themselves are not the cause."