Protein misfolding and aggregation inside the cell was known to contribute to Alzheimers. This article points to the possibility of misfolded and aggregated proteins of Alzheimer patients triggering (or seeding) misfolding and aggregation of otherwise 'healthy' proteins in non-alzheimer patients. Much like the mad cow disease.
Summary for others:
Protein misfolding and aggregation inside the cell was known to contribute to Alzheimers. This article points to the possibility of misfolded and aggregated proteins of Alzheimer patients triggering (or seeding) misfolding and aggregation of otherwise 'healthy' proteins in non-alzheimer patients. Much like the mad cow disease.