Scientists have identified a naturally occurring enzyme called matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9), that can break down abnormally aggregated proteins known as amyloid fibrils a key component of the brain plaques characteristic of Alzheimer's disease.

In a new study, appearing October 25 in The Journal of Neuroscience, Lee's group found that disabling the mouse gene for MMP-9 increased levels of Abeta in the spaces between brain cells. The finding proves that MMP-9 contributes to clearance of Abeta from extracellular spaces and suggests its dysfunction could potentially contribute to the development of Alzheimer's.

Further experiments usign mouse models are being planned to determine if increasing the levels of MMP-9 in the brain can delay the onset of Alzheimer's Disease.

Source: Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis

[Image: American Health Assistance Foundation, Credit: Bob Morreale]