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New research suggests that brain MRI scans better predict Alzheimer's disease than routine clinical tests. Mercer Morrison of Veuer has history.
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Researchers at the University of New Mexico detailed this week the progress made in developing a vaccine that can protect against Alzheimer's disease.

According to a statement released on Monday, scientists tested the vaccine on mice and found that the animals were able to develop antibodies that would fight tau tangles, which could block communication between neurons.

Lack of communication between these neurons is associated with dementia or "cognitive decline," a symptom commonly seen in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

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"We are excited about these results because they seem to suggest that we can use the body's immune system to make antibodies against these tangles," says Nicole Maphis, Ph.D. candidate for the graduate program in biomedical sciences. from the UNM.

The researchers also found that the response of the mice to the vaccine seemed to last for months.

The results were recently published in "NPJ Vaccines," says a statement from the University of New Mexico. The researchers hope to develop a vaccine for humans, but recognize that such a vaccine could be used in decades.

In December, the Southwestern Medical Center at the University of Texas also drew the country's attention to the progress made in developing a vaccine against Alzheimer's disease.

The vaccine has also found promising results by producing antibodies that have slowed the accumulation of the harmful protein. The scientists had also used monkeys and rabbits in their tests and were hoping to test them on humans soon.

According to the Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's is an evolving disease in which the symptoms of dementia progressively worsen. About 5.8 million Americans live with the disease.

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