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One of the hypothesised causes of Alzheimer’s is the over-accumulation of the protein amyloid beta (amyloid-ß) in different areas of the brain. This protection also means that cells from a single donor can be used on multiple patients. It is referred to as a "macroencapsulation device" and it is made of two permeable membranes sealed together with a polypropylene frame. The completed device is 27-mm long, 12-mm wide and 1. One of the most promising ways to fight the plaques is to "tag" the amyloid-ß proteins with antibodies that signal the patient’s own immune system to attack and clear them.The capsule itself is based on a design from Aebischer's lab published in 2014. The work is published in the journal Brain. Empty capsule ManufacturersThis results in the deposition of aggregated protein plaques, which are toxic to neurons. But this requires repeated vaccine injections, which can cause side effects.2-mm thick, and contains a hydrogel that facilitates cell growth.The cells inside the capsule are important. The capsule is implanted in the tissue under the skin, and over time the cells produce and release a steady flow of antibodies into the bloodstream, from where they cross over into the brain to target the amyloid-ß plaques.Before going into capsule, the cells are first genetically engineered to produce antibodies that specifically recognise and target amyloid-ß. This is where the capsule’s membranes come into play, shielding the cells from being identified and attacked by the immune system.The lab of Patrick Aebischer at EPFL has developed a bioactive capsule containing cells that have been genetically engineered to produce antibodies against amyloid-ß. To be most effective, this treatment has to be given as early as possible, before the first signs of cognitive decline.In a cutting-edge treatment for Alzheimer’s disease, EPFL scientists have developed an implantable capsule that can turn the patient’s immune system against the disease.. All the materials used are biocompatible, and the lab specifically used a method that is easily reproducible for large-scale manufacturing. Not only must they be able to produce antibodies, but they also have to be compatible with the patient, so as to not trigger the immune system against them, like a transplant can. The cells of choice are taken from muscle tissue, and the permeable membranes let them interact with the surrounding tissue to get all the nutrients and molecules they need. EPFL scientists have now solved the problem with an implant that can deliver a steady and safe flow of antibodies to the patient’s brain to clear amyloid-ß proteins