Scientists are rethinking the approach to Alzheimer’s after controversies surrounding beta-amyloid. In 2022, doubts arose about a 2006 study on beta-amyloid’s role. Despite this, aducanumab, targeting beta-amyloid, received FDA approval in 2021. The beta-amyloid focus hasn’t yielded effective treatments, prompting a new perspective. Researchers at the Krembil Brain Institute propose that Alzheimer’s is an immune system disorder in the brain, not primarily a brain disease. Beta-amyloid, viewed as part of the brain’s immune system, mistakenly attacks brain cells during immune responses, leading to dementia. This autoimmune perspective opens doors to novel treatments targeting immune-regulating pathways. Other theories, such as mitochondrial dysfunction or brain infections, also gain attention. With dementia affecting millions globally, innovative ideas are crucial for tackling Alzheimer’s public health crisis and alleviating its impact on individuals and healthcare systems.
