Cancer-Like Mutations Found in the Brain May Be Driving Alzheimer’s Disease

Boston Children’s Hospital researchers found cancer-linked mutations in microglia from people with Alzheimer’s disease.

Matching mutations were also seen in blood cells, suggesting mutated immune cells may cross the blood-brain barrier.

The team thinks these cells could fuel brain inflammation and neuron loss, adding a new possible mechanism for Alzheimer’s.

The findings may help improve diagnosis and open the door to repurposing existing cancer drugs.