Researchers are examining the possible benefits of boosting the expression of a particular gene in Alzheimer’s patients.

Specifically, researchers at the University of Rochester Medical Center found that restoring expression of the MEOX2 gene in human brain cells stimulated the formation of new blood vessels. Improving the expression of this gene also raised the level of a protein that removes amyloid beta peptide, a toxin that accumulates in the brain tissue of Alzheimer’s patients. 

Expression of the MEOX2 gene is low in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. Targeting this gene could help slow the disease, the research team leader said. Results of the research were published in the Aug. 14 online edition of Nature Medicine.