University of Missouri Columbia, reports that with the National Institutes of Health $6 million grant, and matching funds from the university, they are beginning phase 2 of their Alzheimer’s disease study. The disease affects 15 to 20 million people worldwide today and is expected to triple by 2050 when 24% of the population will be over 65 years-old.

The second phase is composed of three areas of study.

First area of study is how certain enzymes, when activated, destroy brain cell membranes. Current evidence suggests that A-beta plays a role in activating the enzymes.

Second area of study includes the role A-beta plays in creating an inflammatory response in the brain.

Third area of study will concentrate on what role cholesterol has on the brain. Previous research shows positive benefits of lowered cholesterol on the brain.