Gamers beat scientists to massive Alzheimers breakthrough

Gamers playing Foldit, a puzzle title that has teams trying to fold the best protein, have identified the shape of a protein before scientists could manage the feat, reports Engadget.

There wasn’t a massive amount of processing power or people behind the discovery either, all it took was a relatively modest 469 players to help out.

“The protein in question may be particularly significant. It prevents plaque formation, hinting that it might help fight Alzheimer’s if and when the medical community develops a practical use for it.”

The breakthrough is not only thing that’s impressive according to Paper co-author Scott Horowitz.

“Foldit players were quick to learn about proteins “because it’s fun,” while students take “weeks and weeks” of lectures to wrap their heads around the same concept.”