Unexplainable What causes Alzheimer’s?
Sep 15, 2021
Alexis Pedrick, host of the science history podcast Distillations and an expert on Alzheimer’s research, dives deep into the complexities surrounding Alzheimer's. She challenges the longstanding amyloid hypothesis, questioning whether this narrow focus has hindered progress in finding a cure. Pedrick discusses the systemic issues facing Alzheimer's research, the ethical dilemmas of controversial drugs like aducanumab, and the urgent need for a diversified approach to scientific inquiry to truly advance treatment and understanding.
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Alzheimer's Discovery
- In 1906, Dr. Alois Alzheimer observed a patient with delusions and memory loss.
- After her death, he found sticky plaques and tangles in her brain, now hallmarks of the disease.
Amyloid Hypothesis
- The dominant amyloid hypothesis suggests that unflushed beta-amyloid proteins form plaques.
- These plaques are thought to cause Alzheimer's hallmarks like memory loss.
Hardy's Research
- Geneticist John Hardy's research linked plaque formation to a beta-amyloid protein mutation.
- This strengthened the amyloid hypothesis and intensified research efforts.
