A decade-long study of over 1.2 million Californians reveals a concerning link between wildfire smoke exposure and dementia risk. The study, presented at the Alzheimer’s Association International Conference, found that wildfire smoke significantly increases the odds of dementia diagnosis compared to other air pollution sources like vehicle and factory emissions. The researchers emphasize the urgency of addressing wildfire prevention and mitigation strategies to protect public health.
State Senator Nicole Mitchell (D) has denied a recent burglary charge in Detroit Lakes, citing concerns about a loved one’s declining health due to Alzheimer’s and associated paranoia. Mitchell claims she had a medical reason to check on her relative and was startled, leading to an accusation of stealing. Despite being arrested and charged with first-degree burglary, she maintains her innocence and expresses hope that the matter will remain private.
Biogen reported a solid first quarter with its profits exceeding estimates. The company’s highly anticipated Alzheimer’s drug, Leqembi, has generated significant sales of about $19 million, surpassing the $14 million analysts had predicted. Leqembi, which is administered through intravenous infusions, has experienced a steady increase in patients, with the total number on the drug rising to nearly 2.5 times what it was at the end of 2023. The drug’s annual price tag is $26,500 per patient, and Medicare has agreed to cover the cost for those who meet specific criteria. Additionally, Biogen has implemented cost-cutting measures, including eliminating over 1,000 jobs since Viehbacher became CEO in late 2022.
The REAL AD study, led by the University of Gothenburg and the Västra Götaland Region, aims to identify early signs of Alzheimer’s disease using a combination of digital cognitive tests and blood samples. Over 3,000 participants are needed for the study, which will enroll individuals aged 50-80 without a dementia diagnosis. If successful, the tools could potentially be used in primary care to detect Alzheimer’s earlier than currently possible.
NKGen Biotech (NKGN) shares saw a substantial increase on Monday, with a surge in trading volume. However, no recent news appears to explain the +20% rise in stock price. The company will be presenting at an upcoming Alzheimer’s & Parkinson’s Drug Development Summit, where it will discuss its NK cell therapy for neurodegenerative diseases and share preclinical and clinical data. Despite the lack of apparent news driving the share surge, NKGen Biotech recently closed a $5 million loan and has stated its focus on Phase 2 clinical trials for Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s while prioritizing resource efficiency.
Researchers have identified a link between mitochondrial depletion in axons and abnormal protein accumulation, a hallmark of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s. They found that restoring mitochondrial levels or suppressing elevated levels of the eIF2β protein can restore protein recycling and improve neuron function.
