Alzheimer’s protein fights cancer in mice

Researchers in the US have found that amyloid beta, a hallmark in Alzheimer’s, can strengthen immune responses and reduce tumour growth in mice. 

In Alzheimer’s, amyloid beta builds up in the brain and blocks the recycling of damaged mitochondria — cell components responsible for energy — leading to neuronal death and memory loss.  

Previous studies showed that adults over 59 years with Alzheimer's were 21 times less likely to develop cancer than those without the disease, but the reason behind this relationship remained elusive.  

A team at the Medical University of South Carolina has now found that that the same protein that harms the brain in Alzheimer’s, amyloid beta, can have a beneficial effect on immune cells, specifically T-cells, which identify and destroy cancer.  

In genetically modified mice with Alzheimer’s-like symptoms, amyloid beta's effect on mitochondria enhanced T-cells energy production, making them stronger and more active against threats like cancer. These mice showed reduced tumour growth in skin and oral cancer models. Transferring mitochondria from these T-cells to older immune cells restored their activity and anti-tumour strength.  

“Older T-cells began functioning like young, active T-cells again,” said Besim Ogretmen, lead researcher of the study published in Cancer Research. “That was an incredible finding because it suggests a whole new way to think about rejuvenating the immune system.” 

The research points to potential therapies that could recharge the immune system.