Cancer-associated mutations are enriched in the brain immune cells of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) patients, driving them toward inflammation and proliferation, which may contribute to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration during AD progression (IMAGE)
Caption
Microglia-like immune cells with cancer mutations (purple) emerge in the brain. Separately, clumps of proteins, like Tau or amyloid, accumulate in the brain, making the environment hostile. Those microglia cells with mutations get selected for survival and proliferation, creating an inflammatory environment that makes innocent bystander neurons die, contributing to Alzheimer’s disease.
Credit
Christopher Walsh and colleagues at Boston Children's Hospital
Usage Restrictions
Must be credited to Boston Children's Hospital
License
Original content