UBB+1, an important switch in the onset of Alzheimer’s disease

Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia and is characterised by an accumulation of proteins in the brain. This dissertation analyses the role of specific proteins. It was discovered that the protein UBB⁺¹ plays an important role and that Alzheimer's patients had a higher accumulation of this mutant protein in the respiratory centres of their brainstems. Carrying out a respiratory exam could lead to a faster diagnosis in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, preventing the accumulation of this protein could be a promising way to slow down the process. Another potential therapeutic application involves decreasing the Aβ plaque stores, which are caused by an increase in enzymatic activity (γ-secretase). However, the strategy of inhibiting the enzymes is currently being pursued with disappointing results. Gentier therefore proposes additional research on activating enzymes instead.