Stories from Greifswald · Germany

A study involving the University of Greifswald found that wasp spider populations in Europe have split into two distinct genetic groups. The dividing line between the northern and southern groups runs through central Germany.

A 64-year-old patient, Regine Roman, experienced brain fluid accumulation following her last infusion of an Alzheimer's medication. The side effect has caused a mandatory pause in her treatment for at least four weeks. Roman reported that the fluid accumulation has decreased and expressed determination to continue the therapy. She hopes to continue her treatment in Greifswald.

The new medication Donane MAP binds to protein plaques in the brain typical of Alzheimer's. In clinical studies, the therapy slowed disease progression by approximately 30 percent over an 18-month period. Professor Agnes Flöhl of the neurological clinic at Greifswald University Medicine noted the effect is measurable but often barely noticeable to patients. The medication is administered via infusion every four weeks. Previous substances only stabilized patient conditions by altering brain metabolites without addressing the underlying cause. These new antibodies target the amyloid beta protein responsible for the disease.

The Bach Week in Greifswald will begin on June 1 with a cantata service. The program includes 40 smaller works featuring both Baroque and contemporary compositions. Bach Week head Dietmar announced the program, noting that this year includes a world premiere by the NDR Big Band. The event has centered on Johann Sebastian Bach for 80 years.

New antibody-based medications are showing potential to address the underlying causes of Alzheimer's disease by binding to protein plaques in the brain.