Sigma-RBI Announces Alzheimer's Disease Pathways Poster

ST. LOUIS, Nov. 16 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Sigma-RBI, a division of Sigma-Aldrich Corporation , is pleased to introduce the Alzheimer's Disease Pathways Poster, a comprehensive compilation of the most current information on Alzheimer's disease. The poster details the pathways and interactions involved in the progression of this disease, from the cleavage of amyloid precursor protein by secretases, to the final stages of neuronal cell death via apoptosis. It is a valuable resource for neurodegenerative and Alzheimer's research.

Due to the aging population, neurodegenerative diseases have become more common, and finding a treatment or cure has become a focus of many researchers worldwide. Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, with aging seeming to contribute to its onset. United Nations population projections estimate that the number of people older than 80 years will approach 370 million by the year 2050. Currently, it is estimated that 50% of people over age 85 are afflicted with AD, and that greater than 100 million people worldwide will be suffering from dementia in 50 years. These vast numbers of people requiring round the clock care and other services will severely strain medical, monetary and human resources.

Over 200 Sigma-Aldrich Alzheimer's products are highlighted in the poster, including kits for beta-Amyloid, beta-Secretase, and Tau detection, antibodies to amyloid, tau, secretases and cytokines, amyloid peptides, and inhibitors.

"This poster is an invaluable tool for anyone researching neurodegenerative and Alzheimer's diseases," said Dr. Keith Watling, Director of Cell Signaling and Neuroscience. "The detailed illustration is based on the most up-to-date information available."

About Sigma-Aldrich: Sigma-Aldrich is a leading Life Science and High Technology company. Our biochemical and organic chemical products and kits are used in scientific and genomic research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, the diagnosis of disease and as key components in pharmaceutical and other high technology manufacturing. We have customers in life science companies, university and government institutions, hospitals, and in industry. Over one million scientists and technologists use our products. Sigma-Aldrich operates in 34 countries and has over 6,000 employees providing excellent service worldwide. We are committed to the success of our Customers, Employees and Shareholders through leadership in Life Science, High Technology and Service. For more information about Sigma-Aldrich, please visit our award- winning web site at http://sigma-aldrich.com/ .

CONTACT: Joan Suda, +1-314-286-7626, or Lisa Prostak, +1-508-651-8151,ext. 269, both of Sigma-Aldrich Corporation

Web site: http://www.sigma-aldrich.com/