Why Do Experts Believe Alzheimer’s Is an Autoimmune Disease Rather Than a Brain Disorder?

HPX24h > Uncategorized > Why Do Experts Believe Alzheimer’s Is an Autoimmune Disease Rather Than a Brain Disorder?

Alzheimer’s disease, traditionally known as a neurological disorder caused by the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, is gradually being challenged by a promising new hypothesis. A group of researchers has proposed an intriguing theory suggesting that Alzheimer’s is actually an autoimmune disease, where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks brain cells instead of protecting them. This marks a significant shift in how we understand this condition, potentially leading to new, promising treatment approaches.

The traditional theory posits that the accumulation of beta-amyloid in the brain is the primary cause of Alzheimer’s disease. However, after more than 30 years of research, scientists have made a surprising discovery: Beta-amyloid is not a “foreign protein” but rather a component of the brain’s immune system, playing a role in protecting brain cells from damage and infection. This is explained by the similarity between the lipid molecules in brain cell membranes and bacterial cell membranes. Therefore, beta-amyloid can be “misled” into attacking the very brain cells it is meant to protect, leading to prolonged brain damage and memory loss.

“By viewing beta-amyloid as part of the immune system, we can better understand the pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s,” Dr. Kantha Shelke, an expert in food science and immunology, remarked. Rather than simply focusing on eliminating beta-amyloid, the autoimmune theory opens up new treatment opportunities that target immune regulation pathways in the brain to reduce inflammation and improve brain function.

The immune system is crucial in protecting the body from bacteria and viruses, but in autoimmune diseases, the body mistakenly attacks its own healthy tissues. Other autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and multiple sclerosis share similar mechanisms. If the hypothesis that Alzheimer’s is an autoimmune disease proves to be correct, it would pave the way for a completely new treatment approach for Alzheimer’s patients, targeting not only the beta-amyloid plaques but also regulating the immune system in the brain.

A study published in the Journal of Food Science in 2024 showed that components such as hyaluronan and chondroitin sulfate in chicken bone broth could slow the progression of osteoporosis in animal models. This suggests a connection between food components and neurological diseases, opening new research prospects for Alzheimer’s treatment. Scientists are now not only focusing on reducing beta-amyloid levels but also beginning to consider modulating immune responses in the brain to protect nerve cells.

“It’s true that beta-amyloid plays a protective role in some cases, but if we can regulate the brain’s immune response, we will find more effective cures,” Dr. Abbie Gellman, a nutrition expert from New York, shared.

While the new theory of Alzheimer’s as an autoimmune disease is gaining attention and represents a promising direction, further research is needed to confirm and refine it. However, if this theory is proven correct, it will not only change how we perceive Alzheimer’s but also open a new door to modern treatment methods, offering millions of Alzheimer’s patients a healthier and more hopeful future.