Lab-created cell structures could lead to greater understanding of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative diseases, according to researchers at the University of Georgia.

The cell structures, known as Hirano bodies, were discovered several decades ago, and their presence in Alzheimer's patient autopsies has led researchers to question if they're part of the disease process.

In the past, researchers have had great difficulties studying Hirano bodies because they are resistance to culturing in laboratories.

But results of a new study, appearing in the Journal of Cell Science, report on a novel approach to creating Hirano bodies. And the discovery has given scientists their first tool in understanding how Hirano bodies may aid -- or hinder -- disease progression.

Researcher Marcus Fechheimer and colleagues are not convinced that the Hirano bodies are associated with neurological deterioration, suggesting that a range of conditions may generate signals that cause formation of Hirano bodies.

"The results reveal that formation of Hirano bodies is not necessarily related to cell death," the researchers concluded.

Other Sources: Journal of Cell Science