Shafaqna English- Scientists have discovered that fat buildup in brain immune cells may be a key driver of Alzheimer’s disease.
Purdue University researchers found that microglia, the brain’s cleanup cells, become clogged with fat droplets near Alzheimer’s plaques, impairing their ability to fight disease.
This breakthrough challenges decades of focus solely on protein plaques and tangles. Researchers now believe these “lipid plaques” disrupt the brain’s immune system, leading to neurodegeneration.
The findings open new pathways for treatment by targeting fat accumulation rather than just proteins. This could lead to therapies that restore the brain’s natural defenses against Alzheimer, potentially offering a more effective approach to combating the disease.
Source: Purdue University