Copper and zinc isotopic excursions in the human brain affected by Alzheimer's disease.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is neuropathologically marked by amyloid beta (Aβ) plaques and neurofibrillary tangles. Little is known about isotopic compositions of human AD brains. Here we study this in comparison with control subjects for copper and zinc.

Methods

We use mass-spectrometry methods, developed to study extraterrestrial materials, to compare the copper and zinc isotopic composition of 10 AD and 10 control brains.

Results

Copper and zinc natural isotopic compositions of AD brains are statistically different compared to controls, and correlate with Braak stages.

Discussion

The distribution of natural copper and zinc isotopes in AD is not affected by the diet, but is a consequence of Aβ plaques and tau fibril accumulation. This is well predic

SUBMITTER: Moynier F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7571480 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature