New York, 16 February (IANS). Scientists have developed a new antibody search system, which can help understand the causes behind diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson.
In these diseases, some special types of proteins are turned incorrectly and sticking together and forming harmful aggregates, causing brain cells to be damaged. This process is called “Protein Agriculture”.
Now researchers have developed a new technology, which can be made special antibodies to identify and control such aggregates. This new method helps to understand complex protein structures that were difficult to identify till now.
Antibodies are known for their accurate identification ability, but making antibodies for these temporary protein structures was a major challenge so far. In this new system, designing and developed antibodies are chosen with the help of computers, so that they can connect with harmful protein groups or prevent the process of their formation.
According to Francesko Epilel, Associate Professor in Biological Chemistry at Imperial College London, which led the study, “This technique increases the process of discovery and production of antibodies, saving time and resources.”
Using this new system, scientists have created small antibodies called “nanobodies”, which target the proteins that are not stable and constantly change their forms. Epilee said, “Internal proteins are collected in the interior and make bunches such as oligomers and amiloid fibrils, which is the identity of Alzheimer’s.”
Nanobodies developed by researchers can identify protein groups called amiloid-beeta and alpha-consuce associated with Alzheimer’s and Parkinsons. This discovery will help scientists to understand how these proteins make harmful groups.
Professor Empiley said, “Our system is an important step in understanding the process of formation and assembled. By developing effective nanobodies for these complex goals, we can understand the causes of these diseases further deeply.”
This discovery can open new avenues to treat diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson.
-IANS
AS/