Published on: Mar 05, 2026
A new generation of Alzheimer’s disease drugs, known as monoclonal antibodies, has shown the ability to slow disease progression by reducing amyloid protein buildup in the brain. However, these treatments usually require frequent high-dose infusions and extend patients’ independent living by only about 10 months.
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have now developed a novel cellular immunotherapy that may offer a more efficient alternative. In a study published on March 5 in Science, scientists engineered specialized brain cells called astrocytes to remove harmful amyloid plaques. Remarkably, the therapy required only a single injection in mice.
When administered before plaque formation, the treatment prevented amyloid plaques from developing. In mice that already had plaques, a single treatment reduced amyloid levels by about 50%.
Inspired by CAR-T cell therapies used in cancer treatment, the researchers modified astrocytes with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) that allows them to detect and eliminate amyloid proteins. These engineered “CAR-astrocytes” effectively function as enhanced brain cleaners, targeting the protein buildup linked to Alzheimer’s-related cognitive decline.
According to senior author Marco Colonna, the study represents the first successful attempt to engineer astrocytes to specifically remove amyloid plaques in Alzheimer’s disease models. While further research is needed to refine the therapy and ensure safety, the findings suggest that CAR-astrocyte technology could open new possibilities for treating neurodegenerative diseases and potentially even brain tumors.
Future research will focus on improving the targeting ability of these engineered cells and ensuring they do not interfere with normal brain functions. Scientists are also exploring whether similar approaches could be adapted to attack brain tumors by directing astrocytes to recognize and destroy cancer cells.
Source: https://medicine.washu.edu/news/enhanced-brain-cells-clear-away-dementia-related-proteins/
Back to News
Meet peers and build meaningful connections with experts and industry leaders.
Learn from speakers through scientific sessions, keynotes, and practical workshops.
Capture insights to shape your research, roadmap, and future collaborations.
Grow your impact by sharing work and engaging with the global community.