Transdermal implant releases antibodies to trigger immune system to clear Alzheimer’s plaques.
Adam Rifkin stashed this in Alzheimer's
Stashed in: Alzheimer's, Immunotherapy
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EPFL scientists have developed an implantable capsule containing genetically engineered cells that can recruit a patient’s immune system to combat Alzheimer’s disease.
Placed under the skin, the capsule releases antibody proteins that make their way to the brain and “tag” amyloid beta proteins, signalling the patient’s own immune system to attack and clear the amyloid beta proteins, which are toxic to neurons.
To be most effective, this treatment has to be given as early as possible, before the first signs of cognitive decline. Currently, this requires repeated vaccine injections, which can cause side effects. The new implant can deliver a steady, safe flow of antibodies.
6:28 PM Mar 22 2016