In a promising development for millions of families around the world, scientists have made significant progress toward a potential cure for Alzheimer’s disease, a degenerative brain disorder that currently affects over 50 million people globally.
A multinational team of neuroscientists led by researchers at the University of Cambridge and MIT has announced a breakthrough in targeting and clearing the toxic protein buildups—specifically beta-amyloid plaques and tau tangles—that are believed to be central to the progression of Alzheimer’s.
The team developed a novel therapeutic antibody that can cross the blood-brain barrier and precisely target amyloid and tau proteins without damaging healthy brain cells. “This is the first time we’ve been able to reduce both types of protein accumulations simultaneously and safely in animal models,” said Dr. Elise Morgan, the lead neuroscientist on the project. “The results are encouraging and suggest real potential for slowing—and possibly halting—the progression of Alzheimer’s.”
Early-stage human trials began in late 2024 and, according to preliminary data, show a marked improvement in memory recall, cognitive function, and brain imaging in patients with early to moderate-stage Alzheimer’s.