By Reuben Staines
Staff Reporter


A Seoul National University biologist announced Monday that her research team has pinpointed the protein that triggers Alzheimer’s, a breakthrough that may open the way for developing a treatment for the debilitating neurological disorder.

Moon In-hee, a professor at the university’s College of Medicine, said her team has isolated the protein ERK1/2 as the controller substance for Alzheimer’s.

The finding was published in the latest edition of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology’s journal, which was released Monday.

It is the first decisive evidence of ERK1/2’s key role in Alzheimer’s, although previous studies have indicated the protein promotes the death of brain cells.

According to the Mook’s paper, ERK1/2 directs the production of the enzyme gamma-secretase, which in turn manufactures beta-amyloids within the body. Beta-amyloids, another harmful protein type, are known to be responsible for generating the senile plaques seen in Alzheimer’s disease.

Mook said she hoped the discovery will allow scientists to focus Alzheimer’s research on preventing the formation of the damaging beta-amyloids.

The Seoul National University professor was recognized for her Alzheimer’s research with a fellowship under L’Oreal Korea’s women in science program last year.

Her announcement follows another breakthrough in Alzheimer’s research last week in which a group of University of Illinois chemists obtained the first molecular-level images showing the early stages of brain plaques causing the disorder.

Alzheimer’s disease, the most common cause of senile dementia, is characterised by a progressive deterioration in memory and intellect. It is estimated to afflict more than 5 million people each year.

While so far no cure has been found for Alzheimer’s, several drugs temporarily reduce neurotransmitter degradation and alleviate some symptoms.

rjs@koreatimes.co.kr