New Study Reveals Oligodendrocytes Produce Amyloid-Beta in Alzheimer's, Rescuing Neuronal Dysfunction in Mice

Jul 24, 2024, 12:15 AM

A new study published in PLOS Biology reveals that oligodendrocytes, not just neurons, produce amyloid-beta (Aβ) in Alzheimer's disease. The research, led by Marc Aurel Busche and Rikesh Rajani at the UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) at UCL, demonstrates that targeting Aβ production in oligodendrocytes can rescue early neuronal dysfunction in mice. This breakthrough challenges the long-held belief that neurons are the exclusive source of pathogenic Aβ in Alzheimer's. The findings suggest new treatment avenues by focusing on suppressing oligo Aβ to mitigate neuronal damage. Additionally, secretome analysis indicates the role of oligodendrocytes in contributing to the extracellular matrix.