Brain HealthUSC Scientists Find Brain Enzyme Behind Alzheimer's Inflammation and How to Block It
USC researchers have identified experimental drug compounds that could fight Alzheimer's disease by targeting a brain enzyme called cPLA2, which drives harmful inflammation. The discovery is especially relevant for people carrying the APOE4 gene, the strongest known genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's. Using computational screening of billions of molecules, scientists found compounds that selectively reduce cPLA2 activity without disrupting the enzyme's normal, healthy functions. In mouse studies, a leading compound successfully crossed the blood-brain barrier and reduced neuroinflammatory pathways linked to Alzheimer's. While still in early stages, the findings open a new avenue for treating or preventing neurodegeneration through targeted inflammation control.
