Is this a cure for Alzheimer’s? Jab that improved memory and brain function in mice within a WEEK is to be tested on humans

THERE are fresh hopes for Alzheimer’s sufferers after scientists discovered that a protein lacking in their brain could provide the key to potential treatment.

Researchers say the discovery that the IL-33 protein can reverse cognitive decline in mice is "encouraging".

Mice with Alzheimer's-type disease were injected with IL-33 – and their memory and brain function rapidly improved within a week.

It has already been established that the brain of Alzheimer's sufferers contains less of this particular protein than the brain of non-sufferers.

The latest study was led by scientists at Glasgow University and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).

Professor Eddy Liew, who co-directed the research, said the effects of this finding on human Alzheimer’s are not yet clear.

But he added: “There are encouraging hints.

"For example, previous genetic studies have shown an association between IL-33 mutations and Alzheimer's disease in European and Chinese populations.

";Exciting as it is, there is some distance between laboratory findings and clinical applications.

"There have been enough false 'breakthroughs' in the medical field to caution us not to hold our breath until rigorous clinical trials have been done. Nevertheless, this is a good start."

Alzheimer's symptoms include the presence of a type of deposit and neurofibrillary “tangles” in the brain.

These build up and lead to the loss of connections between nerve cells and eventually to loss of brain tissue.

IL-33 appears to work by mobilising immune cells in the brain, reducing the number and size of the deposits.

It also inhibits inflammation in the brain tissue, which is associated with deposits and tangles forming in the first place.