Neurons with Alpha-Synuclein (IMAGE) Washington University School of Medicine Caption Clumps of the Parkinson's protein alpha-synuclein (red) are visible inside neurons (green) in the brain of a mouse. Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have discovered that the genetic variant APOE4 - long linked to dementia - spurs the spread of harmful clumps of Parkinson's proteins through the brain. The findings suggest that therapies that target APOE might reduce the risk of dementia for people with Parkinson's disease. Credit Z.M. Wargel and B.M. Freeberg Usage Restrictions This image is to be used in accordance with the mission, policies and guidelines of Washington University in St. Louis. Visit https://wustl.edu/about/compliance-policies/media-policies/photo-use/ for more information. License Licensed content Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.