Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine investigated the role of astrocytes, star-shaped cells in the brain, in removing amyloid plaques in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease.[2] Increasing Sox9 protein expression in astrocytes promoted phagocytosis of amyloid plaques, removing them like a vacuum cleaner.[1][2] In an experiment, mice overexpressing Sox9 showed better cognitive functions after six months, including recognition of objects and places.[2] Conversely, knocking out Sox9 accelerated plaque formation, reduced astrocyte complexity, and impaired amyloid clearance.[2] A study published in Nature Neuroscience suggests that enhancing the natural ability of astrocytes to clean the brain may be important for therapy.[1][2] This approach targets glial cells, not just neurons or plaque prevention.[1]