Molecular imaging of Alzheimer's plaques

Amyloid plaques are abnormal buildup proteins that interfere with brain communication and produce typical Alzheimer's symptoms. These include: deep and chronic forgetfulness, and loss of awareness. Studies are widely being conducted to understand the mechanisms involved in Ab polymerization and the interaction of Ab with other molecules that could prevent its fibril formation. The outcome of such a research is useful in identifying methods to detect amyloid plaques and treat Alzheimer’s patients.

Our lab is interested in understanding the mechanistic determination of amyloid fibril formation and binding of novel probes (designed in Dr. Poduslo's lab) to the fibrils using various biophysical techniques. Recently, Dr. Poduslo's group designed a novel molecular probe in collaboration with various scientists in Mayo Clinic. The smart probe can home-in and selectively target amyloid plaques in the brain of Alzheimer's disease transgenic mice after being intravenously injected into the brain. The probe's novel chemical profile enables it to cross the blood-brain barrier to reach the plaques and also provides a visual contrast chemical needed to produce high-resolution MRI images in the brain of live mice. Our ultimate goal of this collaborative project is to use such smart probe as therapeutic and diagnostic agents in Alzheimer's disease.