Scientists think they may have discovered a way to rid the brain of the deposits that are thought to cause Alzheimer's disease. Until now, researchers seeking an Alzheimer's vaccine have concentrated mainly on preventing the formation of the amyloid plaque deposits, not on destroying them. 

The researchers from Massachusetts General Hospital used antibodies to destroy the plaques in the brains of laboratory mice. And a new imaging technology allowed the scientists to view and monitor the impact of the treatment while the mice were still living. It showed that 70% of the plaques had disappeared in only eight days.

Without the new imaging technology, the team could not have determined the success of the treatment. Until now, confirming the presence of the plaques in the brain was only possible upon autopsy.