Researchers try to tackle RAGE

Researchers have developed a compound to tackle a molecule known as RAGE, which attacks the brain tissue of people with Alzheimer's disease.

Following previous failed attempts to block RAGE, a study by the University of Rochester and the University of Southern California has used a synthesised compound to reverse amyloid deposits and prevent inflammation in mice.

Although cautioning that the research has a long way to go, scientists believe the study is a promising step to stopping Alzheimer's disease.

Previously attempts to block RAGE where halted in a phase two human study, after concerns were raised that the compound - which was different to that being used in the current study - was unsafe in high doses.

Dr Berislav Zlokovic, a neuroscientist at the University of California, stated: "It turns out that when you inhibit RAGE, you block molecules central to creating inflammation in the brain, and that is a major problem with Alzheimer’s disease."

If the results are confirmed in larger studies, the compound could be key in helping the world better take care of its ageing population.

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