Treatment with antibodies that attack a harmful molecule in the brain has yielded promising results in tests on Alzheimer’s patients. The results are from a so-called phase 3 clinical study conducted by leading researchers from American, British and Swedish universities. 

The causes of Alzheimer’s disease are not fully understood, but leading scientists believe that it is due to a molecule called beta-amyloid forming plaque in the brain. Beta-amyloid is assumed to interfere with the normal functioning of nerve cells, leading to their degeneration and eventually memory problems and loss of cognitive ability in the patient. 

In two major clinical studies, scientists have now shown that certain antibodies – bapineuzumab and solanezumab – may reduce the harmful effects of beta-amyloid.

Read the full article at the Sahlgrenska Academy's website