Alzheimer's protein jams mitochondria of affected cells; resulting 'energy crisis' kills neurons

[John H.]

http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2003-04/uop-apj040803.php

Public release date: 14-Apr-2003
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Contact: Steve Bradt
bradt at pobox.upenn.edu
215-573-6604
University of Pennsylvania

Alzheimer's protein jams mitochondria of affected cells; resulting 'energy
crisis' kills neurons
PHILADELPHIA -- Opening a new front in the battle against Alzheimer's
disease, scientists at the University of Pennsylvania have found that a
protein long associated with the disease inflicts grave damage in a
previously unimagined way: It seals off mitochondria in affected neurons,
resulting in an "energy crisis" and buildup of toxins that causes cells to
die. This pathway, the first specific biochemical explanation for
pathologies associated with Alzheimer's, is detailed in the April 14 issue
of the Journal of Cell Biology.