Dementia-related enzyme 'can be suppressed with drugs'

A new scientific study claims to have made a breakthrough which could lead to new drug treatments for Alzheimer's disease.

Researchers from Edinburgh University believe they have identified an enzyme which suppresses the flow of chemical messages in the brain, in turn regulating the speed an intensity of thought processes, according to an article in Nature Neuroscience.

They now believe they will be able to develop drugs that will block the effect of the GsK3 enzyme, slowing the cognitive decline experienced by people with Alzheimer's disease.

Dr Mike Cousin of the University of Edinburgh said: "Until now, we understood that this enzyme was important for brain cell function, but we did not fully appreciate why.

"This study shows that GSK3 plays a crucial part in controlling brain function during peak activity."

According to the Alzheimer's Society, the number of people expected to be living with Alzheimer's disease and other dementia conditions is expected to reach one million by 2025.

Read more about Barchester's dementia care homes.