New Publication: Human-on-a-Chip® Study Reveals Peripheral Neuromuscular Pathology not CNS dependent in Alzheimer’s Disease
Published in: Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association
New research published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association demonstrates that motor deficits associated with familial Alzheimer’s disease can arise independently of central nervous system pathology.
Introduction & Impact
Alzheimer’s disease is traditionally viewed as a disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) characterized by progressive brain degeneration and cognitive decline. However, patients often experience motor symptoms, including impairments in gait, balance, and muscle tone.
In a new study published in Alzheimer’s & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer’s Association, researchers from Hesperos and the University of Central Florida NanoScience Technology Center show that familial Alzheimer's disease mutations can impair neuromuscular
function even in the absence of CNS neurons. Alzheimer’s disease research has focused on pathological processes occurring within the brain.
The findings from this study suggest that peripheral neuromuscular dysfunction may represent an independent component of Alzheimer’s disease progression.
Key Results
- Using Hesperos’ Human-on-a-Chip® neuromuscular junction (NMJ) model, familial Alzheimer’s disease mutations caused significant impairments in NMJ function including: reduced synaptic fidelity, increased muscular fatigue, and decreased system stability.
- These neuromuscular impairments occurred in the absence of central nervous system neurons, demonstrating that peripheral pathology may arise independently of brain degeneration.
This work shows that fAD mutations directly impair peripheral neuromuscular function, independent of the central neurodegenerative pathology...
James J. Hickman, PhD
Chief Scientist
Hesperos, Inc.
The finding that neuromuscular dysfunction occurs with fAD mutations independent of the brain is of high significance and will help push the field forward towards novel therapeutic strategies.
Independent Study Reviewer
Alzheimer's & Dementia: The Journal of the Alzheimer's Association
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Hesperos and UCF Researchers Publish Human-on-a-Chip® Study Revealing Peripheral Neuromuscular Pathology is not CNS Dependent in Alzheimer’s Disease
Hesperos and UCF publish new study in Alzheimer’s and Dementia demonstrating peripheral neuromuscular pathology is NOT CNS dependent in Alzheimer’s Disease
