Nanomaterial that mimics proteins could be basis for new neurodegenerative disease treatments

Researchers from the University of Wisconsin–Madison scientists, Northwestern University, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Grove Biopharma, Inc, in Chicago have developed a nanomaterial that could be an effective tool for treating Alzheimer’s and other neurodegenerative diseases. The nanomaterial, called a protein-like polymer, changed the interaction between two proteins that are believed to be involved in setting the stage for diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. While the work was performed in cells in culture, the researchers are now taking it a step further in mouse models of neurodegenerative diseases.