A new chemical compound has shown promise for treating Alzheimer's disease. Its effects in a rat model of the disease were impressive, and the biochemists who discovered it are eager to progress to in-human trials.

A hallmark of Alzheimer's disease is the accumulation of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. And while it's still unclear whether these plaques cause the disease's symptoms, or are merely a side-effect, they remain a major research focus for treatment.

Given that current treatment options for Alzheimer's extend only to symptom relief, the race is on to find drugs that may actually tackle the disease from its roots.

The new compound works by stripping excess copper out of the harmful beta-amyloid plaques in the brain.

"About a decade ago, international studies began to poi

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