Cancer protein cystatin C protects against Alzheimer's in mice

nature.com

A protein produced by cancer cells may protect against Alzheimer's disease by breaking down harmful protein clumps in the brain. This discovery in mice suggests a potential molecular link between the two conditions, which are rarely found together. Researchers identified cystatin C as the key protein after transplanting human tumors into Alzheimer's models. The study, published January 22, 2026, in Cell, could lead to new Alzheimer's treatments. Epidemiological data shows an 11% decreased incidence of Alzheimer's in cancer patients.


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Cancer protein cystatin C protects against Alzheimer's in mice | News Minimalist