An Update on Alzheimer’s Disease Research

Discover SelectScience® video interviews and articles about the latest Alzheimer’s disease research methods

30 Mar 2016
Alex Waite
Editorial Assistant

Editorial article

 

Leading scientists discuss the latest research into the understanding, diagnosis and treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Learn about the range of methods used including biomarker assays and imaging techniques.

1. Prof George Perry: Perspectives on Alzheimer’s Disease Research

Professor George Perry, a worldwide recognized Alzheimer’s disease research expert, spoke to SelectScience® about his research into the role of oxidative stress in Alzheimer’s disease, and how he has used Atomic Resolution Microscopy to investigate the function of copper and iron in the trademark plaques of this disease. In the second part he explains his concerns about the future of Alzheimer’s disease research. Read more>>

2. Advanced Technologies to Investigate Toxic Proteins in Neurodegenerative Disease

Dr Margaret Sutherland, program director at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), describes how advances in structural, biochemical and imaging techniques are revealing the role of toxic proteins in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. Developments in microscopy are allowing researchers to use techniques like cryo electron microscopy and NMR to better understand the structure of the proteins involved in these diseases.Watch the video>>

3. The Importance of Early Diagnosis in Alzheimer’s Disease

SelectScience® interviewed Dr James Hendrix, Director of Global Science Initiatives, at the Alzheimer’s Association about the current research into diagnosing Alzheimer’s disease, including neuroimaging and detection of biomarkers. Read more>>

4. Biomarker Profiling in Alzheimer’s Disease Research

Learn how reproducible, sensitive multiplexed assay systems, such as Luminex xMAP Technology, are ideal solutions for biomarker profiling in Alzheimer’s disease research. Download the application note>>

5. New Target for Alzheimer’s Disease Treatment Identified from Genetics Studies

Discover how an Alzheimer’s disease risk gene, characterized using molecular genetics techniques using the TaqMan® system combined with Bio-Rad’s Chromo4 detector, led to a potential, novel therapeutic strategy in this video with Professor Steve Estus of the Sanders-Brown Center. Watch the video>>

6. Using In-Cell Western Assays to Study Alzheimer's Disease

In this video learn how the In-Cell Western Assay Kits from LI-COR have been used with the Odyssey® Imaging System to study Alzheimer's disease. Watch the video>>

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See more interviews and discover more exciting new technologies and methods on our Alzheimer’s Disease Research Special Feature page.

Image: Alzheimers-TextGraphic-'Feng Yu'/Shutterstock

Luminex® 200™Multiplexing Instrument

Luminex

The Luminex® 200™ detects up to 100 protein or nucleic acid analytes from a single aliquot of sample in a single reaction well, enabling you to generate more data while saving sample, time, and reagents. With more than 11,000 units sold globally to date, the Luminex 100/200 is the established standard in multiplexing instrumentation. The xMAP® multiplexing platform is composed of an instrument and associated reagents: The Luminex 200 instrument is based on the principles of flow cytometry, which integrates key xMAP detection components such as lasers, optics, fluidics, and high-speed digital signal processors. xMAP microspheres are a family of fluorescently dyed carboxylated polystyrene microspheres that act as both the surface for the solution phase assay and the spectral identifier that the instrument detects. The open architecture of xMAP Technology enables users to build custom multiplex assays or select from a broad menu commercially available kits. Instrument Details: Multiplex Capacity: Up to 100 non-magnetic; 80 magnetic Microtiter Plate: 96 well Throughput: ~40 min/96-well plate (up to 12,800 tests per hour) Dynamic Range: 3.5 logs Sensitivity: Detects a minimum of 1,000 fluorochromes of phycoerythrin (PE) per xMAP microsphere Optics: Lasers/APDs/PMTs Hardware: Flow Cytometry based Software: xPONENT® Software supports protocol-based data acquisition with robust data regression analysis Dimensions: All components combined (Analyzer, XY Platform and Sheath Delivery System) 26.5" W x 23.5" D x 12.5" H (67.3 cm W x 59.7 cm D x 31.8 cm H) Weight: All components combined (Analyzer, XY Platform and Sheath Delivery System) 113 lbs (49 kg) xMAP Reagent Compatibility: Magnetic and nonmagnetic microspheres

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Sample PreparationSample preparation can improve the quality and speed of separation techniques. Products to assist sample preparation include filtration equipment, evaporators, membranes and sieves.Cell Adhesion AssaysCell adhesion assays are used to quantitate attachment and analyze the molecular mechanisms for extracellular matrix adhesion, cell migration and sensitivity to inhibitors. Find the best cell adhesion assay equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Genome AnalysisGenomics, the study of genomes, includes functional genomics, evolutionary genomics and comparative genomics. There are many genomic technologies such as DNA sequencing of whole genomes, computational biology and bioinformatics. DNA and nucleic acids must be isolated and concentrated from cells for analysis with kits, automated analyzers and software. 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In choosing immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry kits, consider chromogens, staining method, antibodies, microscopes and imaging.Cell-Based AssaysCell-based assays are used to monitor the presence, quantity and activities of a desired cellular analyte including drug molecules or biomarkers. This can reveal information on cell health (apoptosis, cytotoxicity, viability and proliferation assays), cell metabolism, cell migration and cell signaling mechanisms. Find the best cell-based assay products, kits and equipment with our peer reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receiving pricing direct from manufacturers.DNA / RNA Extraction and PurificationPurified DNA and RNA are required for numerous downstream molecular biology applications. Consequently, the importance of high-quality DNA/RNA extraction and purification equipment cannot be underestimated. Many purification kits are available and are typically optimized for nucleic acid type and source, including plasmid DNA, genomic DNA, mRNA, RNA and viral nucleic acid purification kits. Automated extraction and purification of nucleic acids can be implemented with magnetic bead separator instruments or high-throughput purification workstations. Find the best DNA/RNA extraction and purification equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.DNA SequencingDNA sequencing, such as sanger sequencing, is a biological technique that determines the precise order of nucleotide bases in a fragment or template of DNA. DNA sequencers and genetic analyzers are based on capillary electrophoresis, where labeled DNA fragments are electrophoretically separated by size as they migrate through a polymer. Find the best DNA sequencing products, including DNA sequencing kits, genomic libraries and genetic identity kits in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Gene Expression and Molecular CloningMolecular cloning is a set of techniques that utilizes vectors to transfer recombinant DNA into host cells and is an essential tool for investigating the expression of genes and proteins in bacterial or mammalian cells. A variety of vectors optimized for gene cloning and expression in a range of host organisms are available, alongside competent cells for genetic replication. Here, you can explore a range of molecular tools, high-quality genomic and cDNA libraries, premade clones, transformation and transfection reagents and mutagenesis or gene expression detection assays and expression arrays. Find the best gene expression and molecular cloning products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.RNA InterferenceRNA interference (RNAi) uses siRNA or miRNA for transcriptional silencing, gene knockdown and regulation of gene expression. RNAi requires chemical synthesis, introduction of DNA vectors into cells, an assay of RNAi effects and RNAi quantification or analysis. Consider target sequence selection, reagent preparation, controls, high specificity and effectiveness and low non-specific gene knockdown.BiomarkersBiomarkers are biological markers which can be measured and evaluated to indicate a biological state. The use of biomarkers in research and diagnosis can indicate a normal or disease state or drug response of cells / tissues. Biomarkers include genetic markers, cell surface markers such as antigens, antibodies or receptors and secreted molecules such as cytokines. An assay system is required for identification of biomarkers. :Clinical TrialsClinical Trials, an essential part of drug discovery process, assess the safety and effectiveness of a new medication or device in the pharmaceutical industry. Clinical Trials are a phased process (Phase 0, Phase I, Phase II, Phase III and Phase IV) which begins after initial preclinical testing.