'New strategies' needed for Alzheimer's and Down syndrome research

New strategies are needed for Alzheimer's disease and Down syndrome research to help bring about better treatment.

This is the assertion of a new paper that highlights potential new strategies for targeting cognitive defects and conditions.

The brain degeneration that occurs during Alzheimer's disease is very similar to the cognitive dysfunction of individuals with Down syndrome.

Both conditions are caused by an over-expression of protein in the brain.

Based on the insights emerging from animal models of Down syndrome, study leader Dr Ahmad Salehi has stressed the importance of outlining structural abnormalities.

What's more, he explains that the over-expression of the amyloid precursor protein called APP should be further investigated.

"Considering the research and results with mouse models as an indication of success of a strategy in humans, we are ever closer to finding ways to at least partially restore cognitive function in children and adults with Down syndrome," Dr Salehi said.

Editor of Biological Psychiatry Dr John Krystal explained that the relationship between Down syndrome and Alzheimer's cannot be "overstated".

It is vital that researchers begin to bridge the conceptual gap between the two conditions to yield new and effective treatments, he added.

Researchers in the US believe they have found a way to reverse Alzheimer's disease.

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