- Researchers identified a substance called Peak 1 A-beta that acts as a seed for amyloid beta accumulation, triggering Alzheimer's disease pathology.
- The substance was found in the brains of Alzheimer's patients but absent in those who died from other causes.
- Current drugs remove existing senile plaques; suppressing Peak 1 A-beta could prevent plaque formation.
- The team plans to develop blood tests and imaging for early detection of Peak 1 A-beta.