Grant: Operating Grant

Amyloid disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, are characterized by loss of CNS homeostasis and neurodegeneration leading to cognitive decline. The common and central feature of these diseases is amyloid deposition, of which the major component is the amyloid beta peptide (Abeta). To improve treatment of patients and thereby decrease the associated mortality and morbidity, we propose that only early and prolonged treatment with multiple therapeutic strategies will be effective. One component of a multi-drug approach is to re-balance the immunological status of the CNS to promote homeostasis and decrease secondary injury. Using an in vivo model, we will examine the physiological outcome of antagonizing inflammation within the brain to determine the extent of cognitive improvements. Our preliminary results suggest that both parenchymal and perivascular amyloid contribute to disease pathogenesis and only by addressing both will we improve the life of afflicted individuals.