Tiny Cellular Messengers Offer New Clues in Alzheimer’s Disease
Researchers at Aarhus University have made a significant finding regarding the role of exosomes - incredibly small particles released by cells – in the progress of Alzheimer’s disease. Their work suggests a link between defects in exosome production and a genetic mutation associated with increased Alzheimer’s risk, potentially opening new avenues for treatment.
The study, published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the alzheimer’s Association, focuses on exosomes and their function in cellular dialog. Assistant Professor Kristian Juul-Madsen, a key member of the research team, explains that exosomes act as messengers, activating and influencing nearby cells.The team found that cells predisposed to Alzheimer’s exhibit both reduced exosome production and diminished exosome quality.
Specifically, the research centers on the SORLA protein, produced by the Sorl1 gene – one of four genes known to be linked to inherited forms of Alzheimer’s. Mutations in Sorl1 leading to a faulty SORLA protein appear to disrupt the brain’s ability to create healthy exosomes.
“We observed that cells carrying the SORLA mutation produced approximately 30% fewer exosomes,” says Juul-Madsen. “Furthermore, the exosomes they did produce were substantially less effective at stimulating the growth and maturation of surrounding cells – demonstrating up to a 50% reduction in effectiveness compared to cells with a properly functioning SORLA protein.”
This finding highlights the critical role exosomes, notably those released by the brain’s immune cells, play in maintaining brain health. The researchers believe that impaired exosome function contributes to the increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
Juul-Madsen is optimistic about the potential for future therapies. “We now have the chance to explore treatments that either boost the function of the SORLA protein to enhance exosome production, or target other receptors known to stimulate exosome release.”
The need for such treatments is pressing. Alzheimer’s disease is the most prevalent form of age-related dementia in Denmark,currently affecting an estimated 55,000 people,and effective treatment options remain limited. This research offers a promising new direction in the ongoing search for solutions.
