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Updated: Aug 11, 2026

Genetic Analysis of Hereditary Transthyretin Ala97Ser Related Amyloidosis
Published on: June 9, 2018
Systemic amyloidosis
Helen J Lachmann1, Philip N Hawkins
1National Amyloidosis Centre, Department of Medicine, Royal Free and University College Medical School, Royal Free Campus, London NW3 2PF, UK. h.lachmann@medsch.ucl.ac.uk
Abstract:
Amyloidosis describes a heterogeneous group of diseases in which normally soluble plasma proteins are deposited in the extracellular space in an abnormal insoluble fibrillar form. These diseases can affect virtually any organ system and often present a major diagnostic and management challenge. Current therapies centre on reducing the supply of the respective amyloid fibril precursor protein, combined with supportive treatment. Better understanding of the mechanisms underlying amyloid formation has led to the development of novel treatment strategies aimed at inhibiting fibrillogenesis or destabilizing existing amyloid deposits. It is hoped that some of these developments might contribute to effective treatment not only of systemic amyloidosis, which is relatively rare, but also of the much more common type II diabetes and Alzheimer's disease, in which local amyloid formation is thought to play a role.
Insights
Amyloidosis involves abnormal protein deposits in organs, posing diagnostic challenges. Novel therapies target amyloid formation and deposits, potentially treating rare systemic forms and common diseases like Alzheimer's and type II diabetes.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pathology
- Medicine
Background:
- Amyloidosis is a group of diseases characterized by abnormal extracellular deposition of insoluble protein fibrils.
- These conditions affect multiple organ systems and present significant diagnostic and management difficulties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the current understanding of amyloidosis.
- To discuss emerging therapeutic strategies targeting amyloid formation and deposits.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on amyloidosis pathogenesis and treatment.
- Analysis of novel therapeutic approaches including fibrillogenesis inhibition and amyloid destabilization.
Main Results:
- Current treatments focus on reducing precursor protein supply and supportive care.
- Emerging strategies aim to inhibit amyloid formation or break down existing deposits.
Conclusions:
- Advances in understanding amyloid formation are driving novel therapeutic development.
- These novel strategies may offer effective treatments for systemic amyloidosis, Alzheimer's disease, and type II diabetes.
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