Potato virus treats Alzheimer's (in mice)

Potato head. Image: David Munns, Science Photo Library

Researchers in Ohio reported this month that an amyloid-like protein found in potato virus bears a very close resemblance to one of the key proteins contributing to Alzheimer's disease. 

Robert Friedland and colleagues at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, injected the potato virus into mice followed by four monthly boosters. They found that the mice produced strong levels of antibodies that could attach to amyloid beta protein both in solution and in tissue samples of Alzheimer's patients.  

Transmission electron micrograph of Potato Y virus particles. Image: Center for Bioimaging, Rothamsted Research/Science Photo Library. 

The potato y virus (PYV) is transmitted by aphids and infects potatoes and other crops, including tomato, bell bepper, and tobacco, worldwide but poses no risk to humans. 

Can the antibody also slow Alzheimer’s disease progression and improve cognitive function in humans? 

The researchers wrote in the August 15 Journal of Biological Chemistry that some early human trials were promising, but had to be halted due to the risk of autoimmune encephalitis.

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