Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis are marked by the buildup of misfolded proteins that slowly destroy brain cells, yet treatments that address this root cause are still lacking. Interestingly, researchers provide a comprehensive review of the role of heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) molecular chaperones in several neurodegenerative diseases. Notably, Hsp70 exert neuroprotective effects and mitigate the occurrence of pathological protein aggregates.

Researchers at Wakayama Medical University in Japan have discovered that amyloid-b deposits disrupt the formation of the placenta and may therefore contribute to the development of preeclampsia during pregnancy. These amyloid-b deposits are similar to those characteristically found in the brains of Alzheimer’s disease patients. The findings were published January 20 in the journal Life Science Alliance.