New Alzheimer's research model: microglial cells in the focus of the study

New Alzheimer's research model: microglial cells in the focus of the study

Alzheimer's is a complex disease that not only attacks the memory of those affected, but also has a significant impact on the brain's immune system. The latest research from the Medical Faculty of the University of Freiburg shows that microglial cells, which are crucial for the immune reaction in the brain, only react to external stimuli if they are at a certain distance from typical protein deposits. These findings were published on July 14, 2025 in the renowned journalNature Neurosciencepublished. Professor Dr. Marco Prinz, Medical Director of the Institute of Neuropathology at the University Hospital of Freiburg, highlights the remarkably rapid response of the immune system to the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

The study made it clear that only microglial cells that are not directly attached to the deposits can react to external influences such as infections. By specifically activating these immune cells in the mouse model, the researchers were able to significantly slow down the progression of Alzheimer's disease. Microglial cells play a crucial role in the healthy brain, but change their function in Alzheimer's disease, particularly near amyloid plaques.

Research innovations and techniques

A central tool in this research was the newly developed staining technique, which enabled scientists to distinguish between different groups of cells and observe their reactions more closely. Dr. Katrin Kierdorf, working group leader at the Institute for Infection Prevention and Hospital Hygiene, emphasizes the importance of the spatial location of these immune cells for their functioning in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. These discoveries shed new light on the molecular causes of loss of function in specific cell groups and open up potential for future therapeutic approaches.

The research is not just limited to animal models. Further studies highlight the profound influence of microglial cells on Alzheimer's pathogenesis. Research shows that genetic risk factors in human data play a significant role in the activation and proliferation of these immune cells. Microglial cells are not only important for elucidating beta-amyloid peptides, but also influence neuronal health and responses to injury.

Outlook and future research

In another study conducted in the context of the Hertie Institute for Clinical Brain Research, researchers were able to develop a unique human model for studying immune cells in the brain. Induced pluripotent stem cells, which have an increased risk of Alzheimer's disease, served as a basis for observing the reactions of microglial cells to Alzheimer's-typical deposits. Initial results show promising approaches to replicating the disease-causing processes.” These developments open up new perspectives for therapeutic applications in the field of Alzheimer's research.

The results of these comprehensive study sessions are significant. They not only promote understanding of the disease mechanisms, but also support the search for new biomarkers and therapies that could potentially be used preventatively in the future. However, to clarify the transferability of the results to human patients, further research is needed to further investigate the long-term effects of these immune reactions and their therapeutic possibilities.