Neuronal origins of amyloid heterogeneity in Alzheimer’s disease

Joanna Jankowsky, PhD
Professor of Neuroscience
Endowed Theodore and Bertha Bryan Professor of Environmental Medicine
WashU Medicine

Alzheimer’s disease is increasingly recognized as a heterogeneous disorder, but the basis of that heterogeneity and how it shapes cognitive trajectory remain unclear. In this seminar, Dr. Jankowsky will present work showing that the neuronal source of amyloid-beta determines plaque structure, glial response, and cognitive outcome. These findings suggest that the neuronal origin of amyloid-beta is a key contributor to disease heterogeneity, influencing early plaque structure and inflammatory response in ways that may help explain selective regional vulnerability in Alzheimer’s disease.

Jankowsky’s research focuses on the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease by investigating the factors contributing to its onset and includes exploring interventions that might slow progression. Her work aims to understand how aging and genetics influence disease risk and why specific neural circuits, particularly those involved in memory, are selectively affected. A major contribution of her lab has been the creation, characterization, and free distribution of genetically engineered mouse models that replicate key aspects of Alzheimer’s pathology, providing valuable tools for studying disease mechanisms. These models allow the testing of hypotheses related to the interactions between genes, environment, and aging in determining resilience or susceptibility. Through her research, Dr. Jankowsky seeks to uncover fundamental insights that may guide the development of interventions to slow or prevent cognitive decline.