New steps towards treatments for memory problems

Sent. 1, 2016

Researchers at University College London have discovered that proteins involved in protecting connections between nerve cells may play a role in memory problems that affect people with conditions like Parkinson's.

This could open up an exciting new avenue for developing treatments.

The study is published in Current Biology and was part-funded by Parkinson's UK.

Keeping connections with Wnt

Connections between nerve cells- called synapses- are crucial for nerve cells to work properly and talk to each other.

Synapses are absolutely critical to everything that our brains do

Professor Patricia Salinas, who led the study

In this study, the team investigated the activity of a protein called Wnt – which is known to be important in making and maintaining these connections - in the brains of mice.

They found that stopping Wnt from working properly led to the loss of connections in the brain and the development of memory problems in mice.

Crucially, these memory problems could be reversed by the activation of Wnt.

The importance of synapses in our brains

Professor Patricia Salinas, who led the study at UCL, said:

"Synapses are absolutely critical to everything that our brains do.

"When these important communication points are lost, nerve cells cannot exchange information and this leads to symptoms like memory and thinking problems.

"The Wnt pathway is emerging as a key player in the regulation of the formation, maintenance and function of synapses, and we have provided strong evidence that the Wnt protein is also critical for memory."

What does this mean for people with Parkinson's?

Claire Bale, Head of Research Communications and Engagement at Parkinson's UK, commented:

"Gaining a better understanding of how conditions such as Parkinson's impact and change the brain are crucial to helping develop potential new treatments.

"Although it's early stages in the research, finding ways to enhance the activity of this protein could be important for developing new treatments that could slow the progression of Parkinson's and prevent memory problems and dementia."

https://www.parkinsons.org.uk/news/1-september-2016/new-steps-towards-treatments-memory-problems