Loss of immune-regulating protein seen easing Alzheimer's disease

The loss of a key protein called TIM-3 in the brains of mice with Alzheimer’s disease reduces amyloid-beta levels, leading to improved cognitive function, according to a study led by researchers from Kyoto University. By genetically removing TIM-3, they observed a 50%-60% decrease in amyloid-beta and enhanced memory ability in the animals. This finding could pave the way for new therapies that combine targeting amyloid-beta with substances like TIM-3, potentially offering safer treatment options than current drugs like lecanemab, which have caused brain swelling and bleeding.