| abstract |
Disclosed are diagnostic agents and agents that reduce amyloid β protein production, thereby preventing or reducing conditions likely to develop AD. Blood cholesterol levels are correlated with the production of Aβ and are predictors of populations at risk for developing AD. Methods for reducing blood cholesterol levels can be used to reduce the production of Aβ, thereby reducing the risk of developing AD. The same methods and compositions can also be used to treat individuals diagnosed with AD. Methods include administration of compounds that increase cholesterol uptake by the liver (eg, HMG CoA reductase inhibitors), administration of compounds that block endogenous production of cholesterol (eg, HMG CoA reductase inhibitors), prevention of dietary cholesterol uptake Administration of the composition, administration of any combination of these effective in lowering blood cholesterol levels. [Selection figure] None |