Researchers at The Florey Institute have achieved a significant milestone in Alzheimer’s disease research by developing a novel method using mRNA technology to target the harmful protein tau. Tau is known to accumulate in the brain cells of dementia patients, particularly those with Alzheimer’s disease, leading to cognitive decline and other debilitating symptoms.
While mRNA technology has primarily been associated with vaccine development, notably in combating COVID-19, Florey’s pioneering work has expanded its applications into the realm of neurodegenerative diseases. Dr. Rebecca Nisbet, leading the groundbreaking research, emphasized that this marks the first exploration of mRNA for Alzheimer’s disease treatment.
What are the study findings?
In a recent publication in Brain Communications, The Florey team’s findings showcase how mRNA functions as an “instruction manual” for cells. Once delivered, cells read the mRNA and produce specific antibodies, in this case, RNJ1, designed by Dr. Nisbet to target tau within brain cells.
“This is the first time, to our knowledge, a tau antibody has been able to directly engage tau within the cell,” remarked Dr. Nisbet, underscoring the novelty and potential impact of their approach.
PhD student Patricia Wongsodirdjo, the first author on the paper, highlighted the versatility of their technique, which can be applied to various therapeutic antibodies. The team envisions that combining this strategy with nanoparticle packaging will enhance targeting of toxic molecules in the brain, potentially leading to improved patient outcomes compared to conventional methods.
Dr. Nisbet acknowledged that while RNJ1 shows promise, further research is necessary. She pointed out the limitations of existing Alzheimer’s treatments, such as lecanemab, which can remove plaque outside brain cells but struggle to access tau and other toxic proteins inside cells.
The Florey’s breakthrough not only opens new avenues for Alzheimer’s disease treatment but also demonstrates the power of mRNA technology in addressing complex neurological conditions. This groundbreaking research offers hope for more effective and targeted therapies in the fight against Alzheimer’s and related diseases.
